STRUCTURE
21.0 Introduction
21.1 Objectives
21.2 Customs Procedure
21.2.1 Import procedure
21.2.2 Assessment of import duty and clearance
21.3.3 Export procedure
21.3 Clearance of goods
21.3.1 Baggage
21.3.2 Goods imported and exported by post
21.3.3 Store
21.3.4 Goods in transit
21.4 Duty Drawback Provisions
21.5 Let us Sum up
21.6 Glossary
21.7 Self Assessment Exercise
21.8 Further Readings
21.0 INTRODUCTION
In the previous lesson meaning, scope, objects, nature of customs duty and
classification and valuation of goods have been explained. In this lesson an
attempt is being made to discuss the customs procedure. Besides, it is also
proposed to discuss the provisions relating to baggage and duty draw back etc.
21.1 OBJECTIVE
After going through this lesson you should be able to understand:
• Custom procedure
• Clearance of goods from ports
• Baggage provisions
• Goods imported and exported by post
• Store
• Goods in transits
• Duty drawback provisions
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21.2 CUSTOMS PROCEDURE
Goods are imported in India or exported from India through sea, air or land.
Goods can come through post parcel or as baggage with passengers.
Procedures naturally vary depending on mode of import or export
21.2.1 IMPORT PROCEDURE
Procedures have to be followed by ‘person-in-charge of conveyance’ as well
as the importer.
Procedure to be followed by the Carrier
The 'person in charge of conveyance' (carrier of goods) has to follow
prescribed procedure.
• Arrival at customs port/airport only - Section 29 provides that personin-
charge of a vessel or an aircraft entering India shall call or land at
customs port or customs airport only. It can land at other place only if
compelled by accident, stress of weather or other unavoidable cause. In
such case, he should report to nearest police station or Customs
Officer. While arriving by land route, the vehicle should come by
approved route to ‘land customs station’ only.
• Import Manifest / Report- Person-in-charge of vessel, aircraft or
vehicle has to submit Import Manifest / Report. [also termed as IGM -
Import General Manifest]. (In case of a vessel or aircraft, it is called
import manifest, while in case of vehicle, it is called import report.)
The import manifest in case of vessel or aircraft is required to be
submitted prior to arrival of a vessel or aircraft. Import report (in case
of vehicle) has to be submitted within 12 hours of arrival at the
customs station. If the report / manifest could not be submitted within
prescribed time, person-in-charge or any person specified as
responsible by a notification is liable to penalty upto Rs 50,000
• IGM can be submitted electronically through floppy where EDI facility
is available.
• Import manifest should be filled before arrival of ship aircraft.
Normally, agent submits the import manifest before arrival, so that
maximum possible formalities are completed before vessel or aircraft
arrives. This also enable importer to file ‘Bill of Entry’ in advance.
• Grant of Entry Inwards by Customs Officer - Unloading of cargo can
start only after Customs Officer grants ‘Entry Inwards’. Such entry
inwards can be granted only when berthing accommodation is granted
to a vessel.
• Carrier responsible for shortages during unloading - If the goods are
short landed, the carrier is liable to pay penalty upto twice the amount
of duty payable on such short landed goods.
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Procedure by Importer
The importer importing the goods has to follow prescribed procedures for
import by ship/air/road. (There is separate procedure for goods imported as a
baggage or by post.)
• Bill of Entry - This is a very vital and important document which every
importer has to submit under section 46 Bills of Entry should be
submitted in quadruplicate – original and duplicate for customs,
triplicate for the importer and fourth copy is meant for bank for making
remittances.
• Under EDI system, Bill of Entry is actually printed on computer in
triplicate only after ‘out of charge’ order is given. Duplicate copy is
given to importer.
• Types of Bill of Entry - Bills of Entry should be of one of three types.
Out of these, two types are for clearance from customs while third is
for clearance from warehouse.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR HOME CONSUMPTION - This form, called
‘Bill of Entry for Home Consumption’, is used when the imported
goods are to be cleared on payment of full duty. Home consumption
means use within India. It is white coloured and hence often called
‘white bill of entry’.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR WAREHOUSING - If the imported goods are
not required immediately, importer may like to store the goods in a
warehouse without payment of duty under a bond and then clear from
warehouse when required on payment of duty. This will enable him to
defer payment of customs duty till goods are actually required by him.
This Bill of Entry is printed on yellow paper and often called ‘Yellow
Bill of Entry’. It is also called ‘Into Bond Bill of Entry’ as bond is
executed for transfer of goods in warehouse without payment of duty.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR EX-BOND CLEARANCE - The third type is
for Ex-Bond clearance. This is used for clearance from the warehouse
on payment of duty and is printed on green paper.
• RATE OF DUTY FOR CLEARANCE FROM WAREHOUSE - It
may be noted that rate of duty applicable is as prevalent on date of
removal from warehouse. Thus, if rate has changed after goods are
cleared from customs port, customs duty as assessed on yellow bill of
entry and as paid on green bill of entry will not be same.
• Mention of BIN on Bill of Entry – A BIN (Business Identification
Number) is allotted to each importer and exporter w.e.f. 1.4.2001. It is
a 15 digit code based on PAN of Income Tax (PAN is a 10 digit code)
• Filing of Bill of Entry - Normally, Bill of Entry is filed by CHA on
behalf of the importer. Customs
• Documents to be submitted by Importer - Documents required by
customs authorities are required to be submitted to enable them to (a)
check the goods (b) decide value and classification of goods and (c) to
ensure that the import is legally permitted. The documents that are
essentially required are: (i) Invoice (ii) Packing List (iii) Bill of Lading
/ Delivery Order (iv) GATT declaration form duly filled in (v)
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Importers / CHAs declaration duly signed (vi) Import Licence or
attested photocopy when clearance is under licence (vii) Letter of
Credit / Bank Draft wherever necessary (vii) Insurance memo or
insurance policy (viii) Industrial License if required (ix) Certificate of
country of origin, if preferential rate is claimed. (x) Technical
literature. (xi) Test report in case of chemicals (xii) Advance License /
DEPB in original, where applicable (xiii) Split up of value of spares,
components and machinery (xiv) No commission declaration. – A
declaration in prescribed form about correctness of information should
be submitted.
• The Noting is now done electronically in large ports, while it is done
manually in small ports. Thoka Number (Serial Number) is given
while noting the Bill of Entry.
21.2.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPORT DUTY AND
CLEARANCE
The documents submitted by importer are checked and assessed by Customs
authorities and then goods are cleared.
• Noting of Bill of Entry - Bill of Entry submitted by importer or
Customs House Agent is cross-checked with ‘Import Manifest’
submitted by person in charge of vessel / carrier. It is noted if the
description tallies. ‘.
• Date of presentation of bill of entry is highly relevant and the rate of
duty as applicable on this date will be considered for calculating the
duty payable. Bill of Entry is accepted only after proper scrutiny vis-àvis
import manifest and various declarations given in bill of entry and
attached documents like invoicing, bill of lading etc. If such documents
are not attached, the authorities can refuse to accept the Bill of Entry
• Prior Entry of Bill of Entry - After the goods are unloaded, these have
to be cleared within stipulated time - usually three working days. If
these are not so removed, demurrage is charged by port trust/airport
authorities, which is very high. Hence, importer wants to complete as
many formalities as possible before ship arrives.
Assessment of Customs duty
Section 17 provides that assessment of goods will be made after Bill of Entry
is filed. Date stamp of receipt is put on the ‘Bill of Entry’ and then it is sent to
appraising department either manually or electronically
There are various Appraising groups for different Chapter headings. Each
group is under an Assistant/Deputy Commissioner. Group consists of
‘Examiners’ and ‘Appraisers’.
• APPRAISING THE GOODS - Appraiser has to (a) correctly classify
the goods (b) decide the Value for purpose of Customs duty (c) find
out rate of duty applicable as per any exemption notification and (d)
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verify that goods are not imported in violation of any law. He can call
for any further documents that may be required for assessment. If he is
of the opinion that goods have to be examined for appraisal, he will
issue an examination order, usually on the reverse of Bill of Entry.
• VALUATION OF GOODS - As per rule 10 of Customs Valuation
Rules, the importer has to file declaration about full 'value' of goods. If
the assessing officer has doubts about the truth and accuracy of 'value'
as declared, he can ask importer to submit further information, details
and documents. If the doubt persists, the assessing officer can reject
the value declared by importer.
• APPROVAL OF ASSESSMENT - The assessment has to be approved
by Assistant Commissioner, if the value is more than Rs one lakh. (in
cases covered under ‘fast track clearance for imports’, appraiser is also
authorised to approve valuation). followed by his name, preferably by
rubber stamp.
• PAYMENT OF CUSTOMS DUTY - After assessment of duty,
necessary duty is paid. Regular importers and Custom House Agents
keep current account with Customs department. The duty can be
debited to such current account, or it can be paid in cash/DD through
TR-6 challan in designated banks.
• After payment of duty, if goods were already examined, delivery of
goods can be taken from custodians (port trust) after paying their dues.
If goods were not examined before assessment, these have to be
submitted for examination in import shed to the examining staff. After
shed appraiser gives ‘out of charge’ order, delivery of goods can be
taken from custodian.
• First and second system of assessment - There are two systems of
assessment. Section 17(2) provides for assessment after examination of
goods and section 17(4) provides for assessment on basis of
documents, followed by inspection and testing of goods.
• “First appraisement system” or 'first check procedure' is followed if the
appraiser is not able to make assessment on the basis of documents
submitted and deems that inspection is necessary. Goods are examined
first and then these are assessed.
First appraisement is generally carried out in following cases –
• If complete documents are not submitted
• Goods are to be tested for correct classification
• Goods are re-imported
• Goods are damaged or deteriorated and abatement is claimed
• Goods are abandoned and remission of duty is applied for
• When goods are provisionally assessed
• When importer himself requests for examination of goods before
payment of duty.
In “Second Appraisement System” or 'second check procedure', which is
normally followed, assessment is done on basis of documents and then
goods are examined. Such examination is not mandatory. It is done on
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selective basis on the basis of ‘risk assessment’ or specific intelligence
report. Section 17(4) of Customs Act specifically provides that if initially
assessment is done on basis of documents, re-assessment can be done after
examination or testing of goods or otherwise, if it is found subsequent to
examination or testing or otherwise, that any statement made on Bill of
Entry or any information supplied is not true in respect of matter relevant
to assessment of duty.
EXAMINATION OF GOODS
Examiners carry out physical examination and quantitative checking like
weighing, measuring etc. Selected packages are opened and examined on
sample basis in ‘Customs Examination Yard’. Examination report is prepared
by the examiner.
Provisional Assessment
Section 18 of Customs Act, 1962 provide that provisional assessment can be
done in following cases
(a) when Customs Officer is satisfied that importer or exporter is unable to
produce document or furnish information required for assessment
(b) it is deemed necessary to carry out chemical or other tests of goods
(c) when importer/exporter has produced all documents, but Customs Officer
still deems it necessary to make further enquiry. In such cases, assessment is
done on provisional basis. The importer/exporter has to furnish
guarantee/security as required by Customs Officer for payment of difference if
any. Goods can be cleared after payment of duty provisionally assessed and
after providing the security. After final assessment, difference is paid by
importer or refunded to him as the case may be. If the imported goods were
warehoused after provisional assessment, the Customs Officer may require
importer to execute a bond for twice the difference in duty, if duty finally
assessed is higher [section 18(2) (a)]. The bond is called as 'P D Bond'
(Provisional Duty Bond). The bond is with security or surety. Bank guarantee
can also be given as a security.
Checking of duty drawback / license documents
Documents in respect of Duty Entitlement Pass Book (DEPB), advance
license, duty drawback etc. will be checked.
Out of Customs Charge Order
After goods are examined, it is verified that import is not prohibited and after
customs duty is paid, Customs Officer will issue ‘Out of Customs Charge’
order under section 47. Goods can be cleared from customs area only on
receipt of such order. This is an ‘adjudicating order’ within the meaning of
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Customs Act, even if it is passed by Appraiser and not by Assistant
Commissioner.
Demurrage if goods not cleared
Heavy demurrage is payable if goods are not cleared from port within three
days.
Relevant Date for Rate and Valuation of Customs Duty
Section 15 of Customs Act prescribes that rate of duty and tariff valuation
applicable to imported goods shall be the rate and valuation in force at one of
the following dates. (a) if the goods are entered for home consumption, the
date on which bill of entry is presented (b) in case of warehoused goods, when
Bill of Entry for home consumption is presented u/s 68 for clearance from
warehouse and (c) in other cases, date of payment of duty.
21.2.3 EXPORT PROCEDURE
Procedures have to be followed by (a) ‘person-in-charge of conveyance’ and
(b) the exporter. The procedures are similar to procedures for import, of
course, in reverse direction.
Procedures by person in charge of conveyance
Any new airline, shipping line, steamer agent should be registered in Customs
Systems for electronic processing of shipping bills etc.
The ‘person in charge of conveyance’ has to follow prescribed procedures.
• Entry Outward - The vessel should be granted ‘Entry Outward’.
Loading can start only after entry outward is granted. (Section 39 of
Customs Act). Steamer Agents can file ‘application for entry outwards’
14 days in advance so that intending exporters can start submitting
‘Shipping Bills’. This ensures that formalities are completed as quickly
as possible and loading in ship starts quickly.
• LOADING WITH PERMISSION - Export goods can be loaded only
after Shipping Bill or Bill of Export, duly passed by Customs Officer is
handed over by Exporter to the person-in-charge of conveyance. In
case of baggage and mail bags, shipping bill is not necessary, but
permission of Customs Officer is required (section 40).
• Export Manifest - As per section 41, an Export Manifest/Export Report
in prescribed form should be submitted before departure. [The report is
popularly called as ‘Export General Manifest’ - EGM]. The details
required are similar to import manifest. Such manifest/report can be
amended or supplemented with permission, if there was no fraudulent
intention. Such report should be declared as true by the person-incharge
signing the export manifest. This report is not required if the
conveyance is carrying only luggage of occupants.
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Procedures to be followed by Exporter
Export procedures have been summarised in Chapter 3 Part II of CBE & C’s
Customs Manual, 2001.
Every exporter should take following initial steps -–
1. Obtain BIN (Business Identification Number) from DGFT. It is a PAN
based number
2. Open current account with designated bank for credit of duty drawback
claims
3. Register licenses / advance license / DEPB etc. at the customs station,
if exports are under Export Promotion Schemes
• Exporter has to submit ‘shipping bill’ for export by sea or air
and ‘bill of export’ for export by road. Goods have to be
assessed for duty, even if no duty is payable for most of
exports, as ‘Nil Duty’ assessment is also an assessment.
• Shipping Bill to be submitted by Exporter - Shipping Bill and
Bill of Export Regulations prescribe form of shipping bills. It
should be submitted in quadruplicate. If drawback claim is to
be made, one additional copy should be submitted. There are
five forms: (a) Shipping Bill for export of goods under claim
for duty drawback - these should be in Green colour (b)
Shipping Bill for export of dutiable goods - this should be
yellow colour (c) shipping bill for export of duty free goods - it
should be white colour (d) shipping bill for export of duty free
goods ex-bond - i.e. from bonded store room - it should be pink
colour (e) Shipping Bill for export under DEPB scheme - Blue
colour.
• The shipping bill form requires details like name of exporter,
consignee, Invoice Number, details of packing, description of
goods, quantity, FOB Value etc. Appropriate form of shipping
bill should be used.
• Relevant documents i.e. copies of packing list, invoices, export
contract, letter of credit etc. are also to be submitted. In case of
excisable goods, from ARE-1 prepared at the time of clearance
from factory should also be submitted.
• Customs authorities give serial number (called 'Thoka
Number') to shipping bill, when it is presented.
• Duty drawback formalities - If the exporter intends to claim
duty drawback on his exports, he has to follow prescribed
procedures and submit necessary papers.
• Other documents required for export - Exporter also has to
prepare other documents like (a) Four copies of Commercial
Invoice (b) Four copies of Packing List (c) Certificate of Origin
or pre-shipment inspection where required (d) Insurance policy.
(e) Letter of Credit (f) Declaration of Value (g) Excise ARE284
1/ARE-2 form as applicable (h) GR / SDF form prescribed by
RBI in duplicate (i) Letter showing BIN Number.
• RCMC certificate from Export Promotion Council - Various
Export Promotion Councils have been set up to promote and
develop exports. (e.g. Engineering Export Promotion Council,
Apparel Export Promotion Council, etc.) Exporter has to
become member of the concerned Export Promotion Council
and obtain RCMC - Registration cum membership Certificate.
Check in customs
Document submitted is processed by customs authorities, and following are
checked
• Value and classification of goods under drawback schedule in case of
drawback shipping bills
• Export duty / cess if applicable
• Advance License shipping bills are checked to ensure that description
in invoice and final product specified in Advance License matches. If
necessary, samples may be drawn and assessment may be done after
visual inspection or testing
• Exportability of goods under EXIM policy and other laws - Some
exports are totally prohibited under various Acts e.g. items restricted
or prohibited under Foreign Trade (Regulation) Act; antiques; art
treasures; Arms; narcotics etc. Some items like tea, coffee and coir
products can be exported only against authorisation/licence under
respective Acts.
Examination of goods before export
After shipping bill is passed by export department, the goods are presented to
shed appraiser (exports) in dock for examination. Goods will be examined by
examiner. This inspection is necessary (a) to ensure that prohibited goods are
not exported (b) goods tally with description and invoice (c) duty drawback,
where applicable, is correctly claimed.
Let Export Order by Customs Authorities
Customs Officer will verify the contents and after he is satisfied that goods are
not prohibited for exports and that export duty, if applicable is paid, will
permit clearance. (section 51) by giving ‘let ship’ or ‘let export’ order.
GR-1, ARE-1, octroi papers, quota certification for export etc. are also signed.
Exporter’s copy of shipping Bill, GR-1, and ARE-1 etc. duly certified are
handed over to exporter or CHA. Drawback claims papers are also processed.
–
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Conveyance to leave on written order
The vessel or aircraft which has brought imported goods or which carry export
goods cannot leave that customs station unless a written order is given by
Customs Officer. Such order is given only after (a) export manifest is
submitted (b) shipping bills or bills of export, bills of transhipment etc. are
submitted (c) duties on stores consumed are paid or payment of the same is
secured (d) no penalty is leviable (e) export duty, if applicable, is paid. - -
Such permission is not required if the conveyance is carrying only luggage of
occupants.
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity A
Give the name of any five documents that the importer is required to submit to
the customs authorities?
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
21.3 CLEARANCE OF GOODS
Following are the procedures of Baggage and Clearance.
21.3.1 BAGGAGE
Elaborate provisions have been made for baggage as many Indians have
tremendous craze for foreign goods - particularly electronic goods, cosmetics,
liquor, perfumes etc.
(a) Baggage means all dutiable articles, imported by passenger or a member
of a crew in his baggage (b) Un-accompanied baggage, if despatched
previously or subsequently within prescribed period is also covered (c)
baggage does not include motor vehicles, alcoholic drinks and goods
imported through courier (d) Baggage does not include articles imported
under an import licence for his own use or on behalf of others.
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BONA FIDE BAGGAGE EXEMPT FROM DUTY
Bona fide baggage accompanying passenger is exempt from duty. It includes
wearing apparel, toilet requisites and other personal effects.
GENERAL PROHIBITIONS
Following are general prohibitions / restrictions –
(a) Foreign and Indian currency can be taken out / brought in only as per
restrictions of RBI under FEMA
(b) Possession of narcotic drugs is strictly prohibited.
(c) Domestic pets like dogs, cats, birds etc. can be brought as per strict health
certificate regulations.
(d) Taking out exotic birds, wind orchids and wild life, is strictly prohibited.
(e) Endangered species or articles made from flora and fauna such as ivory,
musk, reptile skins, furs, shahtoosh or antiques are prohibited.
Declaration by owner of baggage
Section 77 of Customs Act provides that owner of any baggage has to make
declaration of its contents to customs officer. Rate of duty and tariff valuation
shall be the rate and valuation in force on the date of declaration.
• GREEN CHANNEL - It is impractical to ask every traveller to declare
contents of his baggage. Hence, customs have provided two channels
at airports. If a person does not have any dutiable goods, he can go
through green channel.
• An incoming passenger has to submit disembarkation card, containing
written declaration about his baggage. This should be collected when
passenger goes through green channel. –
• Any passenger found walking through green channel with dutiable or
prohibited goods (or found mis-declaring quantity, value or description
while going through red channel) is liable to strict penal action of
seizure and confiscation. He can even be arrest / prosecuted
• Ministry has advised that instead of high percentage of screening the
bags, field formations should intensify intelligence and surveillance
system of passenger profiling to ensure that only suspect passengers
and frequent short visit passengers are diverted from green channel for
scanning of baggage.
• RED CHANNEL - Person carrying dutiable goods should pass through
red channel and should submit declaration. The declaration of goods
and value as given by passenger in disembarkation card is generally
accepted, but baggage can be inspected by customs officer.
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Rate of duty on baggage
Rate of duty on baggage is as follows:
• GENERAL RATE ON BAGGAGE - Baggage is classified in Customs
Tariff in Chapter 98.03, irrespective of actual classification as per
Customs Tariff. The entry reads as “All dutiable articles, imported by
passenger or member of crew in his baggage”. Tariff rate is 150%.
However, effective rate (i.e. specified by a notification) is 35% w.e.f.
1-3-2005, plus education cess of 2% on the duty.
• This rate is not available to - fire arms, cartridge of firearms exceeding
50, cigarettes, cigars or tobacco in excess of the quantity prescribed for
importation free of duty under Baggage Rules and goods imported
through courier service
• CONCESSIONAL RATE IN CERTAIN CASES - A person returning
after one year or a person transferring his residence to India after two
years' stay abroad, is eligible for concessional rates on some goods.
• DUTY ON GOLD IN SOME CASES - Gold brought as baggage by a
passenger of Indian origin or a person holding Indian passport. The
duty is only Rs 100 per Kg for import of gold bars bearing
manufacturer’s or refiner’s engraved serial number and weight
expressed in metric units and gold coins. In case of other gold,
including tola bars and ornaments (but excluding ornaments studded
with stones or pearls), the duty is Rs 250 per Kg. Upto 10 Kg gold can
be brought by each eligible passenger. No special additional duty or
CVD is payable. The person should have been staying abroad for over
six months. Duty must be paid only in convertible foreign currency.
Out of the period of 6 months, short visits upto 30 days are permitted,
if the concession was not availed in those short visits.
• DUTY ON SILVER IN SOME CASES - Silver brought as baggage by
a passenger of Indian origin holding Indian passport upto 100 Kg is
chargeable to duty of Rs. 500 per Kg, if the person was staying abroad
for over six months. Duty has to be paid only in convertible foreign
currency. No special additional duty, or CVD is payable. Out of the
period of 6 months, short visits upto 30 days are permitted, if the
concession was not availed in such short visit.
• The gold and sliver so obtained can be sold in India, provided that
payment for the same is obtained by cheque in Indian rupees gold.
• IMPORT FOR PERSONAL USE - Dutiable articles imported by air or
post, but not as baggage, intended for personal use, which are not
prohibited under Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act are
classifiable under 98.04 and general rate is 30%, plus 4% special
additional duty (SAD). The goods are exempt from additional duty
(CVD).
• BAGGAGE EXEMPT OR AT CONCESSIONAL RATE OF DUTY -
Following baggage is exempt from customs duty - (a) Personal
property re-imported (b) Free replacement under warranty of articles
which are private personal property of passenger (c) foodstuff upto Rs
50,000 (d) Free gifts and donations to red cross, CARE or Government
of India for relief and rehabilitation (e) Samples, price lists, prototypes,
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commercial samples etc. (f) Goods brought for display, exhibition, fair
etc., subject to various conditions (g) Agricultural products or goods
manufactured or produced in Nepal. (h) Other goods as
• EXEMPTION TO MINOR AMOUNTS OF CUSTOMS DUTY –
Customs duty is not payable if amount of duty is Equal to or less than
Rs 100
Exemptions/Restrictions on Baggage
Tourists can be broadly classified as (a) Indian persons going abroad for a
short trip and coming back (b) Indian persons gone abroad for work and
coming back after few years (c) tourists visiting India for sight seeing or
business purpose. Accordingly, ‘Baggage Rules, 1998’ contain different
provisions for (a) Residents from India (b) Tourists visiting India and (c)
Persons transferring their residence.
Exemption only to bonafide baggage - The exemption to baggage is available
only to bonafide baggage. Though the term 'bonafide' baggage is not defined,
baggage declaration form prescribed that 'bonafide baggage' includes
• wearing apparel * personal and household effects meant for personal
use of passenger or family members travelling with him and not for
sale or gift
• Jewellery including articles made wholly or mainly of gold, in
reasonable quantity according to status of passenger
• Tools of draftsman
• Instruments of physician or surgeon.
Baggage of Indian Resident or foreigner residing in India
Resident means a person holding Indian Passport and normally residing in
India (i.e. Indian persons going abroad for short visit). The concession of free
import of used personal effects and general free allowance is also available for
foreign citizens residing in India.
• Used personal effects - Used articles of personal wear and articles in
personal use of passengers for daily necessaries is fully exempt. Used
personal effects are also exempt. (This allowance is also available to
foreign citizens residing in India returning from abroad).
• EXPORT CERTIFICATE WHILE GOING OUT - Note that items like
camera, computer, jewellery etc. will be permitted duty free as
personal effects only if these were taken from India while going
abroad. An 'export certificate' should be obtained from authorities
while taking these goods abroad, so that these can be brought back
without payment of duty.
• GENERAL FREE ALLOWANCE - In addition to personal effects
(excluding jewellery), a passenger of 12 or more years of age is
allowed general free allowance of Rs. 25,000, if the Indian Resident is
returning from country other than Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar or China.
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This allowance is also available to foreign citizens residing in India
and tourists of Indian origin. The allowance is also available if he is
transferring his residence or returning after 3/12 / 24 months. A Non
Resident Indian who does not hold Indian passport is also entitled to
GFA if he is of Indian origin this allowance cannot be pooled with
General Free Allowance of other passengers - e.g. husband and wife
bringing one item of Rs. 50,000 will not be permitted duty free. . The
GFA is not available to foreign tourists. This General Free Allowance
is not applicable to un-accompanied baggage.
• RESTRICTED/EXCLUDED ITEMS FROM GENERAL FREE
ALLOWANCE - The exemption is not allowed to items included in
Annex I to Baggage Rules, 1998. Items included in Annex I are: (1)
fire arms; (2) cartridges of fire arms exceeding 50; (3) cigarettes
exceeding 200 or cigars exceeding 50 or tobacco exceeding 250 Gms.;
(4) Alcoholic liquor and wines in excess of one Liter each (5) Gold or
Silver in any form, other than ornaments.
• Allowance to professionals returning to India - An Indian passenger
who was engaged in his profession abroad for over three months is
allowed to import following duty free goods as additional allowance -
(a) Household Articles upto Rs 6,000 (e.g. linen, utensils, tableware,
kitchen appliances, an iron etc.) (b) Professional equipment like
portable equipments, apparatus and appliances required in such
profession, upto Rs. 10,000/-. The limit will be increased to Rs.
20,000/- if he was abroad for over 6 months.
• This exemption of professional equipment is only for carpenters,
plumbers, welders, masons and the like and not for items of common
use like cameras, typewriter, cassette-recorder, computers, word
processor etc. - Rule 5 of Baggage Rules, 1998 read with Appendix C.
• Limited exemption to jewellery - If the passenger was residing abroad
for over one year, jewellery can be imported duty free upto Rs. 10,000
in case of gentleman passenger and Rs. 20,000 in case of lady
passenger.
• Imported goods taken abroad and brought back - A tourist can take
imported equipment like camera, cellular phone, notebook computers
02etc. abroad. In such case, he should take 'Export Certificate' with
him while going abroad. This will enable him to bring back the said
goods without payment of duty on return. It is now provided that
frequent travellers can get such certificate in advance. The certificate
will be serially numbered with official seal of issuing authority-giving
details of the product. Such certificate will be valid for one year and
can be obtained from any major customs house, international airport or
seaport.
• Duty payable on balance un-exempted baggage - The baggage
(including un-accompanied baggage) is exempt subject to limits
mentioned above. The balance quantity is dutiable at rates explained
above. Duty payable on Silver and Gold imported, as baggage has been
separately prescribed.
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Concession to persons transferring his residence (TR)
A person who is transferring his residence to India is eligible to bring used
personal and household articles to India without duty. The provisions are
applicable to all - i.e. foreigners coming for residing in India as well as Indian
resident coming after 2 years and who is transferring his residence to India.
• The conditions are: (a) He should have been residing abroad for at least
two years. During this period short visits not exceeding 6 months are
permissible. (b) The provision regarding 2 years' stay can be condoned
upto 2 months by Assistant Commissioner, if the early return was due
to terminal leave or vacation or other special circumstances. (c) The
provision regarding maximum 6 months stay during 2 years can be
relaxed by Commissioner in deserving cases (d) The passenger should
not have availed this concession in preceding three years (e) Goods in
Annex I & II are not allowed under this concession. (Rules 8 of
Baggage Rules, 1998, read with Appendix F). (However, duty on 18
items in Annex II is 30% upto value of goods of Rs. 5.0 lakhs).
• GENERAL FREE ALLOWANCE - A passenger can also avail of
‘General Free Allowance’ as available to other residents, in addition to
above. (Rule 8).
• PERSONAL AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS - The exemption is
available only for ‘personal and household goods’ i.e. those required
for use of the passenger or running the household. CONCESSION
FOR TRANSFER OF RESIDENCE - A person transferring his
residence to India after stay abroad for two years and who has not
availed this concession in preceding three years is eligible for
concession upto value of Rs. 5.00 lakhs exclusive of value of his
personal effects and other household articles. This concession is
available on 18 articles contained in Annex II of Baggage Rules, 1998.
Duty is 30%. Passenger has to declare that no other person of his
family has availed this benefit.
• ARTICLES NOT ALLOWED UNDER TR - Transfer of Residence
concession is not available to motor vehicles, vessels, aircrafts,
cinematograph films, alcoholic liquor and wines (in excess of one litre
each), cigarettes (exceeding 200), cigars (exceeding 50), tobacco
(exceeding 250 gms.), Gold (other than ornaments), Silver (other than
ornaments), fire arms and cartridges of fire arms exceeding 50 – Annex
I and II of Baggage Rules.
Allowance for persons returning after one year i.e. Mini TR
A person who was working abroad and is returning to India on
termination of work and who was staying abroad for at least 365 days out
of previous two years is eligible to certain concessions. This is termed as
‘mini TR’ i.e. ‘Mini Transfer of Residence’. He is entitled to bring
personal effects and household articles upto Rs. 75,000/- duty free [The
limit was Rs 30,000 upto 28-2-2002]. This allowance is in addition to
General Free Allowance. The conditions are (a) These should be in
possession of himself or his family and used for at least six months (b) He
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shall be allowed to avail himself of this exemption only once in three
years. (c) Items in Annex I & Annex II to Baggage Rules are not allowed
under this rule. (d) Goods should be contained in his bonafide baggage.
Items under Annex I am already explained above. Items under Annex II are as
follows:
ITEMS IN ANNEX II –
Colour/monochrome TV
(i) VCR/VCP/VTR
(ii) Digital Video Disc (DVD) player
(iii) Video Home Theatre system
(iv) Washing machine
(v) Electrical/LPG cooking range (other than stoves with upto two
burners)
(vi) Music system
(vii) Personal/Desk top Computer
(viii) Note book computer/ laptop computer
(ix) Air conditioner
(x) Refrigerator
(xi) Deep freezer
(xii) Microwave oven
(xiii) Video camera or video camera with TV, sound/video recording
apparatus
(xiv) Word processing machine.
(xv) Fax machine.
(xvi) Portable photocopying machine
(xvii) Vessels
(xviii) Aircrafts
(xix) Cinematograph films of 35 mm and above.
(xx) Gold or Silver in any form, other than ornaments.
In other words, the exemption of Rs. 75,000 is illusory as the items a person
would like to bring after stay abroad are mostly not exempt. However, duty
payable is 30% on the first 18 items included in Annex II upto value of Rs 1,
50,000 in case of Mini TR.
Since ‘baggage’ does not include motor vehicles, liquor and firearms, the
exemption is obviously not applicable for those goods.
• CONCESSIONAL RATE OF 30% IF PERSON RETURNING
AFTER STAY OF 365 DAYS - The general rate of customs duty on
baggage is reduced to 30% if a person holding Indian passport, returns
to India after staying abroad for at least 365 days in last two years. He
should be 'working abroad', i.e. mere stay with relatives or others is not
enough to avail this concession. The person is eligible for following
concession: duty payable is 30% on CTV, VCR, VCP, cooking range,
washing machines, A/C, PC, dish washers, musical systems,
refrigerator, deep freeze, micro-wave oven, video camera, word
processing machine and Fax machine. (These are first 18 items
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included in Annex II to Baggage Rules, 1998) Concession is available
for one unit of these goods per family upto total value of Rs. 75,000,
inclusive of value of other goods imported duty free under rule 5 of
Baggage Rules. [Under these rules, household articles excluding those
in Annex I and Annex II are permitted to be imported duty free].
Concessions to Tourists
Tourists visit India for various purposes and rules have been framed to allow
them to bring goods to India.
Tourist means (a) a person who is not normally resident of India (b) who
enters India for stay of not more than six months in the course of twelve
month period (c) he should come for legitimate non-immigrant purpose such
as touring, recreation, sport, health, family reasons, study, religious
pilgrimages or business. [rule 2(iii) of Baggage Rules, 1998].
Thus, Non-Resident Indians who do not hold Indian passports are also covered
in this definition.
Exemption to Baggage of tourists
Following are the exemptions -
(a) Used personal effects of tourist and travel souvenirs are allowed duty free.
Personal effects should be for personal use of the tourist and these goods,
other than consumed, should be re-exported when tourist leaves India for
foreign destination.
(b) Tourists of Indian Origin (even if holding foreign passport) other than
those coming from Pakistan by land route, are entitled to General Free
Allowance in addition to 'personal effects'.
(c) Foreign Tourists are permitted to bring articles upto Rs 4,000 for making
gifts. This can include upto 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 gms of tobacco
and upto 1 litre each of Alcoholic liquor and wine. Duty will have to be paid
for gifts over the value of Rs 4,000 (Rs 3,000 if they are coming from
Pakistan).
(d) Tourists of Pakistani origin or foreign tourists coming from Pakistan or
tourists of Indian origin coming from Pakistan, by land route, are entitled to
bring used personal effects and travel souvenirs are allowed duty free.
Personal effects should be for personal use of the tourist and these goods,
other than consumed, should be re-exported when tourist leaves India for
foreign destination. In addition, articles upto values of Rs 3,000 for making
gifts are permitted duty free.
(e) Tourists of Nepalese origin coming from Nepal or of Bhutanese origin
coming from Bhutan are not entitled to any exemption. The rules do not even
make mention in respect of exemption of personal goods for their personal
use. Obviously, this is not the intention. In fact, as per section 79(1) (b) of
Customs Act, articles of baggage for use of the passenger or his family are
exempt from customs duty and hence they will be exempt even if no specific
mention is made in rules.
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IMPORT BY FOREIGN EXPERTS
Foreign experts assigned to India under various UN schemes etc. are
permitted to bring various articles, including VCR, video camera and Air
conditioners. These are exempt from customs duty on obtaining certificate of
undertaking from the expert. Duty will be paid by concerned ministry /
department.
21.3.2 GOODS IMPORTED AND EXPORTED BY
POST
Normal procedures for import by air/ship/road are not possible for imports as
‘baggage’ or import through post. Hence, separate provisions have been made
for import/export by post.
• ENTRY FOR PURPOSE OF POSTAL ARTICLES - 'Entry' means an
Entry made in 'Bill of Entry' in case of imports and 'Shipping Bill' in
case of exports. In case of post parcels, Label/declaration
accompanying goods which contain description, quantity and value of
the goods will be deemed to be an ‘Entry’ for purposes of Customs
Act, vide section 82 of Customs Act. Thus, filing of separate Bill of
Entry or Shipping Bill is not necessary for import/export through post.
• RATE OF DUTY AND TARIFF VALUATION - As per section 83 of
Customs Act, the rate of duty and valuation as on date on which postal
authorities submit the list to Customs Officer will be considered.
However, if such list is presented before arrival of vessel, the date will
be deemed to be date of arrival of the vessel. Similarly, in case of
exports, rate and tariff valuation as applicable on date on which goods
are handed over to postal authorities will be considered.
Regulation for import/ export by post
Section 84 authorises Board to make regulations for procedures for
examination and assessment of duty and transit/transhipment of goods
imported by post. Accordingly, CBE and C have made rules.
• POST PARCELS TO POST OFFICE - Post parcels will be allowed to
pass from port/airport to Foreign Parcel Department of Government
Post Offices without payment of customs duty. Postmaster will hand
over to Principal Appraiser, Customs following (a) memo showing
total number of parcels from each country of origin (b) Parcel Bills or
Senders’ declaration (c) Customs declaration and despatch notes, if any
(d) other information that may be required.
• INSPECTION OF MAIL - The mail bag will be opened and
scrutinised by Postmaster under supervision of Principal Postal
Appraiser of Customs. Packets suspected of containing dutiable goods
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will be separated and presented to Customs Appraiser with letter mail
bill and assessment memos.
• PARCEL BILL/LETTER MAIL BILL - The parcel bill/letter mail bill
will show details like (a) Serial number assigned by office of posting
(b) Name of office of posting (c) Destination (d) weight (e) local
number (f) Contents as ascertained by Customs (g) Declared value in
foreign currency (h) Rupee Value (i) Rate of duty (j) Amount of duty
and (k) Remarks.
• EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT - Customs Appraiser will
mark the parcels which are required to be detained as (a) necessary
particulars are not available or (b) mis-declaration or under-valuation
is suspected or (c) goods are prohibited for import. Other parcels will
be assessed without opening, on the basis of details given in parcel bill
or despatch notes. The duty will be assessed and will be entered on
parcel bill. These will be audited and returned to Postmaster.
Postmaster will hand over parcel to addressee only after collecting the
customs duty.
• OPENING OF PARCELS - Parcels selected by Appraiser for
examination will be opened and examined. If required, details will be
called from addressee. After inspection, the parcels will be sealed with
a distinctive seal. If mis-declaration or under-valuation is noted or
goods are prohibited goods for imports, these will be detained and
reported to Customs Commissioner. After assessment, these will be
handed over to Post Master, who will hand over to addressee on receipt
of payment of Customs duty.
GIFTS BY POST
Gifts from abroad upto Rs. 10,000 of goods, which are not prohibited goods
for import, are duty free if sent by post or through courier. The postal charges
or air freight will not be taken into account for determining value limit of Rs
10,000. [Notification No. 171/93-Cus dated 16-9-1993 as amended on 6-7-
1999]. However, if the value exceeds Rs 10,000, customs duty is payable on
whole value even if gift was received unsolicited.
EXEMPTIONS TO POST PARCELS
Post Parcel where customs duty payable is less than Rs. 100 are fully exempt
from duty (this is obviously with a view to ignore small parcels). Post Parcels
posted from India but returned un-delivered are also exempt from customs
duty, if no export benefit was claimed on these parcels.
EXPORT BY POST
Articles exported by post are required to be covered by a declaration in
prescribed form. Where the value exceeds Rs 50 and payment is to be
received, the export must be declared in exchange control form PP. Export of
Indian and foreign currency, bank drafts, cheques, National Saving
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Certificates are not allowed unless accompanied by permit issued by RBI,
unless where such negotiable instruments are sent by authorised dealers in
India. Goods upto Rs 25,000 can be exported as gifts. Export of purchases
made by foreign tourists is permitted on submission of proof that payment was
received in foreign exchange.
21.3.3 STORE
Section 2(38) define ‘Stores’ as goods for use in a vessel or aircraft and
includes diesel and spare parts and other articles of equipment, whether or not
they are required for immediate fitting. The ships/aircrafts coming from
abroad require spares and consumables for their ships and hence special
provisions have been made.
• TRANSIT AND TRANSSHIPMENT
• Stores can remain on Board of vessel or aircraft while in India.
Imported Stores can be transferred to another vessel or aircraft with
permission of Customs officer, without payment of duty, if the vessel
is a foreign going vessel. - section 86. Imported stores on board a
vessel or aircraft can be consumed as stores without payment of
customs duty, as long as the vessel or aircraft is a foreign going vessel
or aircraft. (Section 87.)
• WAREHOUSING OF STORES
• Imported stores can be kept in warehouse without assessment of duty
and without payment of duty for supply to ships / aircrafts. (Section
85.)
• REMOVAL OF STORES FROM WAREHOUSE - The stores can be
removed from warehouse without payment of duty to be taken back on
foreign going vessel. A 'shipping bill' has to be submitted if the 'stores'
are to be removed without payment of duty. Warehouse rent and other
penalties etc. if applicable, are payable before removal of stores.
(Section 88.)If stores are to be removed after payment of duty for
home consumption, Bill of Entry has to be submitted and goods can be
removed after payment of duty, penalties, rent and interest as may be
applicable.
• STORES FREE OF EXPORT DUTY - Stores manufactured or
produced in India may be exported without payment of export duty, as
stores on any foreign going vessel with permission of Customs Officer,
who will determine the requirement based on size of vessel or aircraft,
length of journey etc. - section 89. - - Since the supply is treated as
‘export’ it will be eligible for duty drawback.
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• SUPPLY OF IMPORTED DUTY PAID STORES - Imported duty
paid stores can be supplied as 'stores' to foreign going vessel. If such
supplies of stores are made, 98% of customs duty paid will be allowed
as 'duty drawback'. If fuel or lubricating oil is supplied as stores to
foreign going vessel, 100% customs duty paid on the fuel or
lubricating oil is refunded as ‘duty draw back’. - Section 88
21.3.4 GOODS IN TRANSIT
Section 53 provide that any goods imported in any conveyance will be allowed
to remain on the conveyance and to be transited without payment of customs
duty, to any place out of India or any customs station. However, all these
goods must be mentioned in import manifest or import report submitted by
person in charge of conveyance. Such goods should not be ‘prohibited goods’
under section 11 of Customs Act. [The conveyance may be vehicle, ship or
aircraft]. After transit, the goods may go to another customs station.
On arrival at customs station, the goods will be liable to customs duty as if it is
first importation in India
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity B
Give the name of the two channels provided by customs at airport ?
a)
b)
Activity C
Discuss whether the following items are included in Annex 1 to Baggage
Rules, 1988:
a) Video camera
b) Aircraft
c) Fire arms
d) Computer
e) Music system
f) Gold other than ornaments
21.4 DUTY DRAWBACK PROVISIONS
Drawback means the rebate of duty chargeable on any imported materials or
excisable materials used in manufacture or processing of goods which are
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manufactured in India and exported. Export means taking out of India. Supply
of stores for use in vessel or aircraft proceeding to foreign port is also covered,
since it is treated as ‘export’ as per section 89 of Customs Act.
Duty Drawback is equal to (a) customs duty paid on imported inputs including
SAD plus (b) excise duty paid on indigenous inputs. Duty paid on packing
material is also eligible. However, if inputs are obtained without payment of
customs/excise duty, no drawback will be paid. If customs/excise duty is paid
on part of inputs or rebate/refund is obtained, only that part on which duty is
paid and on which rebate/refund is not obtained will be eligible for drawback.
No drawback is available on other taxes like sales tax and octroi.
Processing also eligible for Drawback - Drawback is allowable if any
manufacture; process or any operation is carried out in India [section 75(1) of
Customs Act]. Thus, drawback is available not only on manufacture, but also
on processing and job work, where goods may not change its identity and no
‘manufacture’ has taken place.
Type of Drawback Rates –
• All Industry Drawback rates are fixed by Directorate of Drawback,
Dept. of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India, Jeevan Deep,
Parliament Street, New Delhi - 110 001. The rates are periodically
revised - normally on 1st June every year. Data from industry is
collected for this purpose. The types of rates are as follows:
• ALL INDUSTRY RATE - This rate is fixed under rule 3 of Drawback
Rules by considering average quantity and value of each class of inputs
imported or manufactured in India. Average amount of duties paid is
considered. These rates are fixed for broad categories of products. The
rates include drawback on packing materials. Normally, the rates are
revised every year from 1st June, i.e. after considering the impact of
budget, which is presented in February every year. All Industry
drawback rate is not fixed if the rate is less than 1% of FOB Value,
unless the drawback claim per shipment exceeds Rs 500.
• The AIR (All Industry Rate) is usually fixed as % of FOB price of
export products. However, in respect of many export products, duty
drawback cap (ceiling) has been prescribed, so that even if an exporter
gets high price, his duty drawback eligibility does not go above the
ceiling prescribed.
• The table gives allocation of the drawback allowed under two heads
namely - Customs and Central Excise. The Customs portion covers
basic customs duty, surcharge and SAD. Excise portion covers basic
and special excise duty and CVD. Duty drawback of customs portion
can be paid even if exporter has availed Cenvat credit, as Cenvat credit
is only of excise duty and CVD.
• The All Industry Rate (AIR) is fixed on the basis of weighted averages
of consumption of imported / indigenous inputs of a representative
cross section of exporters and average incidence of duties. Hence,
individual exporter is not required to produce any evidence in respect
of actual duties paid by him on inputs
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• BRAND RATE - It is possible to fix All Industry Rate only for some
standard products. It cannot be fixed for special type of products. In
such cases, brand rate is fixed under rule 6. The manufacturer has to
submit application with all details to Commissioner, Central Excise.
Such application must be made within 60 days of export. This period
can be extended by Central Government by further 30 days. Further
extension can be granted even upto one year in if delay was due to
abnormal situations
• SPECIAL BRAND RATE - All Industry rate is fixed on average basis.
Thus, a particular manufacturer may find that the actual duty paid on
inputs is higher than All Industry Rate fixed for his product. In such
case, he can apply under rule 7 of Drawback Rules for fixation of
Special Brand Rate, within 30 days from export. The conditions of
eligibility are (a) the all Industry rate fixed should be less than 80% of
the duties paid by him (b) rate should not be less than 1% of FOB
value of product except when amount of drawback per shipment is
more than Rs. 500 (c) export value is not less than the value of
imported material used in them - i.e. there should not be ‘negative
value addition’.
Drawback Rate Fixation
Forms and procedures have been prescribed for submitting details to
jurisdictional Commissioner of Central Excise, who will fix the rate of duty
drawback
Drawback claim procedure
• Exporter shall endorse on the ‘shipping bill’ the description, quantity
and other details to decide whether goods are eligible for duty
drawback. He should submit one extra copy of shipping bill for
drawback purposes. Copy of Invoice should be submitted.
• DECLARATION BY EXPORTER - A declaration should be made
rule 12(1)(a)(ii) of Duty Drawback Rules, on shipping bill or bill of
export that claim of drawback is being made and that duties of customs
and excise have been paid on materials, containers and packing
materials and that no separate claim for rebate of duty will be made. If
the exporter or his authorised agent was unable to make such
declaration due to reasons beyond his control, Commissioner of
Customs can grant exemption from this provision of making
declaration on shipping bill or bill of export.
• Further declarations are also required when brand rate or special brand
rate has been fixed. These declarations have to be signed by exporter.
• Triplicate copy of shipping Bill is the drawback copy and should be
marked as ‘Drawback Claim Copy’. It should be submitted with prereceipt
on reverse side with revenue stamp.
• DECLARATION FOR NON-AVAILMENT OF CENVAT – (a) If the
manufacturer-exporter or supporting manufacturer of merchant
exporter is registered with Central Excise, fact of non-availment of
Cenvat credit can be verified from ARE-1 form furnished (b) If the
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manufacturer-exporter or supporting manufacturer of merchant
exporter is not registered with Central Excise, they have to submit selfdeclaration
about non-availment of Cenvat in prescribed form. The
drawback rate consists of two components - customs portion
(consisting of basic customs duty, surcharge and SAD) and excise
portion (consisting of basic excise duty, special excise duty and CVD).
The Cenvat credit is only in respect of central excise. Hence, it has
been clarified that even if Cenvat credit has been availed, duty
drawback in respect of customs portion will be available.
Duty drawback on Re-export
• Section 74 of Customs Act, 1962 provide for drawback if the goods are
re-exported as such or after use. This may happen in cases like import
for exhibitions, goods rejected or wrong shipment etc. The re-exported
goods should be identifiable as having been imported and should be reexported
within two years from date of payment of duty when they
were imported. This period (of two years) can be extended by CBE&C
on sufficient cause being shown. These should be declared and
inspected by Customs Officer. Original shipping bill under which the
goods were imported should be produced. The goods can be exported
as cargo by air or sea, or as baggage or by post. -. -. - After inspection,
export and submission of application with full details, 98% of the
customs duty paid while importing the goods is repaid as drawback.
• DISTINCTION BETWEEN SECTION 74 AND 75 - Section 74 is
applicable when imported goods are re-exported as it is and article is
easily identifiable, while section 75 is applicable when imported
materials are used in the manufacture of goods which are then exported
• VALUE AT THE TIME OF EXPORT IS RELEVANT - As per
section 74(4), goods are deemed to have been entered for export on the
date rate of duty is to be calculated under section 16. As per section 16,
value of export goods will be taken on the date on which proper officer
makes an order permitting clearance of goods for export under section
51 of Customs Act. Hence, ‘Value’ for the purposes of section 76(1)
(b) will be value at the time of export and not the original value of
import of the goods.
• GOODS CAN BE RE-EXPORTED TO ANY PARTY AND FROM
ANY PORT – It has been clarified that goods can be re-exported to
any party (and not only to the same supplier) and re-export can take
place from any port
• DRAWBACK FOR USED GOODS - If the imported goods are used
before re-export, the drawback will be allowed at a reduced percentage
[section 76(2) of Customs Act, 2162]. If the goods were in possession
of the importer, they might be treated as used by the importer. As per
the rules framed by Central Government, the table is as follows: (a) use
upto 6 months; 85% (b) 6 months to 12 months: 70% (c) 12 months to
18 months: 60% (d) 18 months to 24 months: 50% (e) 24 months to 30
months: 40% (f) 30 months to 36 months: 30% (g) over 36 months:
Nil. Drawback is allowed if the use is over 24 months only with
permission of Commissioner of Customs if sufficient cause is shown.
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• GOODS FOR PERSONAL USE - If the goods (including motor car)
were imported for personal use, the reduction in import duty
refundable is 4% per quarter for first year, 3% per quarter for second
year, 2.5% per quarter for third year and 2%
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity D
Give the name of the three types of drawback rates?
a)
b)
c)
Activity E
Who fixed the all industry drawbacks rates?
21. 5 SUMMARY
Customs duties levied by central government import of goods into, and export
of goods from, India. These rules are applicable for imported good not
applicable to exported goods. Good are imported or exported from India
through sea, air or land. Goods can come through post parcel or as baggage
with passengers. Procedure naturally varies depending on mode of import or
export. There are separate provisions for baggage. There are provisions for
draw back of custom and excise duty paid on inputs.
21.6 GLOSSARY
The various key words, which arise in this chapter, are
Aircraft means any machine, which can derive support in the atmosphere
from reactions of the air and includes balloons whether fixed, or free, airships,
kites, gliders and flying machines.”
Assessments include provisional assessment, reassessment and any order of
assessment in which the duty assessed is nil.
Bill of export refers to a prescribed form for the goods to be exported by
land
Board means the Central Board of Excise and Customs constituted under the
Central Boards of Revenue Act, 1963. [2(6)1]
Conveyance includes a vessel, an aircraft and a vehicle.
Duty means a duty of customs leviable under this Act.
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Examination in relation to any goods, includes measurement and weighment
thereof
Export Price means the price at which goods are exported. If the export
price is unreliable due to association or compensatory arrangement between
exporter and importer or a third party, export price can be constructed
(revised) on the basis of price at which the imported articles are first sold to
independent buyer or according to rules made for determining margin of
dumping.
Vehicle means conveyance of any kind used on land and includes a railway
vehicle
Warehouse means a public warehouse appointed under section 57 or
private warehouse licensed under section 58
Warehoused Goods means goods deposited in a warehouse.
21.7 SELF ASSESSMENT EXCERSCISE
1) Explain briefly the meaning of First appraisement and Second
appraisement system under customs act 1962?
2) Explain the provisions under customs act 1962 relating to Baggage
duty and concession to the resident retuning from abroad after a short
visit?
3) Write a short note on Drawback under section 74 of the Customs Act
1962?
4) Write short note on the following:
a) Import manifest
b) Customs station
c) Person in charge
d) Entry outward
21.8 FURTHER READINGS
Datey, V.S, 2005. Indirect Taxes, Taxmann Publisher, Delhi. Twentieth
Edition.
Sanjeev Kumar. 2005. Indirect Taxes, Bharat Law House, Delhi. Fifth
Edition.

STRUCTURE
21.0 Introduction
21.1 Objectives
21.2 Customs Procedure
21.2.1 Import procedure
21.2.2 Assessment of import duty and clearance
21.3.3 Export procedure
21.3 Clearance of goods
21.3.1 Baggage
21.3.2 Goods imported and exported by post
21.3.3 Store
21.3.4 Goods in transit
21.4 Duty Drawback Provisions
21.5 Let us Sum up
21.6 Glossary
21.7 Self Assessment Exercise
21.8 Further Readings
21.0 INTRODUCTION
In the previous lesson meaning, scope, objects, nature of customs duty and
classification and valuation of goods have been explained. In this lesson an
attempt is being made to discuss the customs procedure. Besides, it is also
proposed to discuss the provisions relating to baggage and duty draw back etc.
21.1 OBJECTIVE
After going through this lesson you should be able to understand:
• Custom procedure
• Clearance of goods from ports
• Baggage provisions
• Goods imported and exported by post
• Store
• Goods in transits
• Duty drawback provisions
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21.2 CUSTOMS PROCEDURE
Goods are imported in India or exported from India through sea, air or land.
Goods can come through post parcel or as baggage with passengers.
Procedures naturally vary depending on mode of import or export
21.2.1 IMPORT PROCEDURE
Procedures have to be followed by ‘person-in-charge of conveyance’ as well
as the importer.
Procedure to be followed by the Carrier
The 'person in charge of conveyance' (carrier of goods) has to follow
prescribed procedure.
• Arrival at customs port/airport only - Section 29 provides that personin-
charge of a vessel or an aircraft entering India shall call or land at
customs port or customs airport only. It can land at other place only if
compelled by accident, stress of weather or other unavoidable cause. In
such case, he should report to nearest police station or Customs
Officer. While arriving by land route, the vehicle should come by
approved route to ‘land customs station’ only.
• Import Manifest / Report- Person-in-charge of vessel, aircraft or
vehicle has to submit Import Manifest / Report. [also termed as IGM -
Import General Manifest]. (In case of a vessel or aircraft, it is called
import manifest, while in case of vehicle, it is called import report.)
The import manifest in case of vessel or aircraft is required to be
submitted prior to arrival of a vessel or aircraft. Import report (in case
of vehicle) has to be submitted within 12 hours of arrival at the
customs station. If the report / manifest could not be submitted within
prescribed time, person-in-charge or any person specified as
responsible by a notification is liable to penalty upto Rs 50,000
• IGM can be submitted electronically through floppy where EDI facility
is available.
• Import manifest should be filled before arrival of ship aircraft.
Normally, agent submits the import manifest before arrival, so that
maximum possible formalities are completed before vessel or aircraft
arrives. This also enable importer to file ‘Bill of Entry’ in advance.
• Grant of Entry Inwards by Customs Officer - Unloading of cargo can
start only after Customs Officer grants ‘Entry Inwards’. Such entry
inwards can be granted only when berthing accommodation is granted
to a vessel.
• Carrier responsible for shortages during unloading - If the goods are
short landed, the carrier is liable to pay penalty upto twice the amount
of duty payable on such short landed goods.
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Procedure by Importer
The importer importing the goods has to follow prescribed procedures for
import by ship/air/road. (There is separate procedure for goods imported as a
baggage or by post.)
• Bill of Entry - This is a very vital and important document which every
importer has to submit under section 46 Bills of Entry should be
submitted in quadruplicate – original and duplicate for customs,
triplicate for the importer and fourth copy is meant for bank for making
remittances.
• Under EDI system, Bill of Entry is actually printed on computer in
triplicate only after ‘out of charge’ order is given. Duplicate copy is
given to importer.
• Types of Bill of Entry - Bills of Entry should be of one of three types.
Out of these, two types are for clearance from customs while third is
for clearance from warehouse.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR HOME CONSUMPTION - This form, called
‘Bill of Entry for Home Consumption’, is used when the imported
goods are to be cleared on payment of full duty. Home consumption
means use within India. It is white coloured and hence often called
‘white bill of entry’.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR WAREHOUSING - If the imported goods are
not required immediately, importer may like to store the goods in a
warehouse without payment of duty under a bond and then clear from
warehouse when required on payment of duty. This will enable him to
defer payment of customs duty till goods are actually required by him.
This Bill of Entry is printed on yellow paper and often called ‘Yellow
Bill of Entry’. It is also called ‘Into Bond Bill of Entry’ as bond is
executed for transfer of goods in warehouse without payment of duty.
• BILL OF ENTRY FOR EX-BOND CLEARANCE - The third type is
for Ex-Bond clearance. This is used for clearance from the warehouse
on payment of duty and is printed on green paper.
• RATE OF DUTY FOR CLEARANCE FROM WAREHOUSE - It
may be noted that rate of duty applicable is as prevalent on date of
removal from warehouse. Thus, if rate has changed after goods are
cleared from customs port, customs duty as assessed on yellow bill of
entry and as paid on green bill of entry will not be same.
• Mention of BIN on Bill of Entry – A BIN (Business Identification
Number) is allotted to each importer and exporter w.e.f. 1.4.2001. It is
a 15 digit code based on PAN of Income Tax (PAN is a 10 digit code)
• Filing of Bill of Entry - Normally, Bill of Entry is filed by CHA on
behalf of the importer. Customs
• Documents to be submitted by Importer - Documents required by
customs authorities are required to be submitted to enable them to (a)
check the goods (b) decide value and classification of goods and (c) to
ensure that the import is legally permitted. The documents that are
essentially required are: (i) Invoice (ii) Packing List (iii) Bill of Lading
/ Delivery Order (iv) GATT declaration form duly filled in (v)
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Importers / CHAs declaration duly signed (vi) Import Licence or
attested photocopy when clearance is under licence (vii) Letter of
Credit / Bank Draft wherever necessary (vii) Insurance memo or
insurance policy (viii) Industrial License if required (ix) Certificate of
country of origin, if preferential rate is claimed. (x) Technical
literature. (xi) Test report in case of chemicals (xii) Advance License /
DEPB in original, where applicable (xiii) Split up of value of spares,
components and machinery (xiv) No commission declaration. – A
declaration in prescribed form about correctness of information should
be submitted.
• The Noting is now done electronically in large ports, while it is done
manually in small ports. Thoka Number (Serial Number) is given
while noting the Bill of Entry.
21.2.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPORT DUTY AND
CLEARANCE
The documents submitted by importer are checked and assessed by Customs
authorities and then goods are cleared.
• Noting of Bill of Entry - Bill of Entry submitted by importer or
Customs House Agent is cross-checked with ‘Import Manifest’
submitted by person in charge of vessel / carrier. It is noted if the
description tallies. ‘.
• Date of presentation of bill of entry is highly relevant and the rate of
duty as applicable on this date will be considered for calculating the
duty payable. Bill of Entry is accepted only after proper scrutiny vis-àvis
import manifest and various declarations given in bill of entry and
attached documents like invoicing, bill of lading etc. If such documents
are not attached, the authorities can refuse to accept the Bill of Entry
• Prior Entry of Bill of Entry - After the goods are unloaded, these have
to be cleared within stipulated time - usually three working days. If
these are not so removed, demurrage is charged by port trust/airport
authorities, which is very high. Hence, importer wants to complete as
many formalities as possible before ship arrives.
Assessment of Customs duty
Section 17 provides that assessment of goods will be made after Bill of Entry
is filed. Date stamp of receipt is put on the ‘Bill of Entry’ and then it is sent to
appraising department either manually or electronically
There are various Appraising groups for different Chapter headings. Each
group is under an Assistant/Deputy Commissioner. Group consists of
‘Examiners’ and ‘Appraisers’.
• APPRAISING THE GOODS - Appraiser has to (a) correctly classify
the goods (b) decide the Value for purpose of Customs duty (c) find
out rate of duty applicable as per any exemption notification and (d)
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verify that goods are not imported in violation of any law. He can call
for any further documents that may be required for assessment. If he is
of the opinion that goods have to be examined for appraisal, he will
issue an examination order, usually on the reverse of Bill of Entry.
• VALUATION OF GOODS - As per rule 10 of Customs Valuation
Rules, the importer has to file declaration about full 'value' of goods. If
the assessing officer has doubts about the truth and accuracy of 'value'
as declared, he can ask importer to submit further information, details
and documents. If the doubt persists, the assessing officer can reject
the value declared by importer.
• APPROVAL OF ASSESSMENT - The assessment has to be approved
by Assistant Commissioner, if the value is more than Rs one lakh. (in
cases covered under ‘fast track clearance for imports’, appraiser is also
authorised to approve valuation). followed by his name, preferably by
rubber stamp.
• PAYMENT OF CUSTOMS DUTY - After assessment of duty,
necessary duty is paid. Regular importers and Custom House Agents
keep current account with Customs department. The duty can be
debited to such current account, or it can be paid in cash/DD through
TR-6 challan in designated banks.
• After payment of duty, if goods were already examined, delivery of
goods can be taken from custodians (port trust) after paying their dues.
If goods were not examined before assessment, these have to be
submitted for examination in import shed to the examining staff. After
shed appraiser gives ‘out of charge’ order, delivery of goods can be
taken from custodian.
• First and second system of assessment - There are two systems of
assessment. Section 17(2) provides for assessment after examination of
goods and section 17(4) provides for assessment on basis of
documents, followed by inspection and testing of goods.
• “First appraisement system” or 'first check procedure' is followed if the
appraiser is not able to make assessment on the basis of documents
submitted and deems that inspection is necessary. Goods are examined
first and then these are assessed.
First appraisement is generally carried out in following cases –
• If complete documents are not submitted
• Goods are to be tested for correct classification
• Goods are re-imported
• Goods are damaged or deteriorated and abatement is claimed
• Goods are abandoned and remission of duty is applied for
• When goods are provisionally assessed
• When importer himself requests for examination of goods before
payment of duty.
In “Second Appraisement System” or 'second check procedure', which is
normally followed, assessment is done on basis of documents and then
goods are examined. Such examination is not mandatory. It is done on
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selective basis on the basis of ‘risk assessment’ or specific intelligence
report. Section 17(4) of Customs Act specifically provides that if initially
assessment is done on basis of documents, re-assessment can be done after
examination or testing of goods or otherwise, if it is found subsequent to
examination or testing or otherwise, that any statement made on Bill of
Entry or any information supplied is not true in respect of matter relevant
to assessment of duty.
EXAMINATION OF GOODS
Examiners carry out physical examination and quantitative checking like
weighing, measuring etc. Selected packages are opened and examined on
sample basis in ‘Customs Examination Yard’. Examination report is prepared
by the examiner.
Provisional Assessment
Section 18 of Customs Act, 1962 provide that provisional assessment can be
done in following cases
(a) when Customs Officer is satisfied that importer or exporter is unable to
produce document or furnish information required for assessment
(b) it is deemed necessary to carry out chemical or other tests of goods
(c) when importer/exporter has produced all documents, but Customs Officer
still deems it necessary to make further enquiry. In such cases, assessment is
done on provisional basis. The importer/exporter has to furnish
guarantee/security as required by Customs Officer for payment of difference if
any. Goods can be cleared after payment of duty provisionally assessed and
after providing the security. After final assessment, difference is paid by
importer or refunded to him as the case may be. If the imported goods were
warehoused after provisional assessment, the Customs Officer may require
importer to execute a bond for twice the difference in duty, if duty finally
assessed is higher [section 18(2) (a)]. The bond is called as 'P D Bond'
(Provisional Duty Bond). The bond is with security or surety. Bank guarantee
can also be given as a security.
Checking of duty drawback / license documents
Documents in respect of Duty Entitlement Pass Book (DEPB), advance
license, duty drawback etc. will be checked.
Out of Customs Charge Order
After goods are examined, it is verified that import is not prohibited and after
customs duty is paid, Customs Officer will issue ‘Out of Customs Charge’
order under section 47. Goods can be cleared from customs area only on
receipt of such order. This is an ‘adjudicating order’ within the meaning of
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Customs Act, even if it is passed by Appraiser and not by Assistant
Commissioner.
Demurrage if goods not cleared
Heavy demurrage is payable if goods are not cleared from port within three
days.
Relevant Date for Rate and Valuation of Customs Duty
Section 15 of Customs Act prescribes that rate of duty and tariff valuation
applicable to imported goods shall be the rate and valuation in force at one of
the following dates. (a) if the goods are entered for home consumption, the
date on which bill of entry is presented (b) in case of warehoused goods, when
Bill of Entry for home consumption is presented u/s 68 for clearance from
warehouse and (c) in other cases, date of payment of duty.
21.2.3 EXPORT PROCEDURE
Procedures have to be followed by (a) ‘person-in-charge of conveyance’ and
(b) the exporter. The procedures are similar to procedures for import, of
course, in reverse direction.
Procedures by person in charge of conveyance
Any new airline, shipping line, steamer agent should be registered in Customs
Systems for electronic processing of shipping bills etc.
The ‘person in charge of conveyance’ has to follow prescribed procedures.
• Entry Outward - The vessel should be granted ‘Entry Outward’.
Loading can start only after entry outward is granted. (Section 39 of
Customs Act). Steamer Agents can file ‘application for entry outwards’
14 days in advance so that intending exporters can start submitting
‘Shipping Bills’. This ensures that formalities are completed as quickly
as possible and loading in ship starts quickly.
• LOADING WITH PERMISSION - Export goods can be loaded only
after Shipping Bill or Bill of Export, duly passed by Customs Officer is
handed over by Exporter to the person-in-charge of conveyance. In
case of baggage and mail bags, shipping bill is not necessary, but
permission of Customs Officer is required (section 40).
• Export Manifest - As per section 41, an Export Manifest/Export Report
in prescribed form should be submitted before departure. [The report is
popularly called as ‘Export General Manifest’ - EGM]. The details
required are similar to import manifest. Such manifest/report can be
amended or supplemented with permission, if there was no fraudulent
intention. Such report should be declared as true by the person-incharge
signing the export manifest. This report is not required if the
conveyance is carrying only luggage of occupants.
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Procedures to be followed by Exporter
Export procedures have been summarised in Chapter 3 Part II of CBE & C’s
Customs Manual, 2001.
Every exporter should take following initial steps -–
1. Obtain BIN (Business Identification Number) from DGFT. It is a PAN
based number
2. Open current account with designated bank for credit of duty drawback
claims
3. Register licenses / advance license / DEPB etc. at the customs station,
if exports are under Export Promotion Schemes
• Exporter has to submit ‘shipping bill’ for export by sea or air
and ‘bill of export’ for export by road. Goods have to be
assessed for duty, even if no duty is payable for most of
exports, as ‘Nil Duty’ assessment is also an assessment.
• Shipping Bill to be submitted by Exporter - Shipping Bill and
Bill of Export Regulations prescribe form of shipping bills. It
should be submitted in quadruplicate. If drawback claim is to
be made, one additional copy should be submitted. There are
five forms: (a) Shipping Bill for export of goods under claim
for duty drawback - these should be in Green colour (b)
Shipping Bill for export of dutiable goods - this should be
yellow colour (c) shipping bill for export of duty free goods - it
should be white colour (d) shipping bill for export of duty free
goods ex-bond - i.e. from bonded store room - it should be pink
colour (e) Shipping Bill for export under DEPB scheme - Blue
colour.
• The shipping bill form requires details like name of exporter,
consignee, Invoice Number, details of packing, description of
goods, quantity, FOB Value etc. Appropriate form of shipping
bill should be used.
• Relevant documents i.e. copies of packing list, invoices, export
contract, letter of credit etc. are also to be submitted. In case of
excisable goods, from ARE-1 prepared at the time of clearance
from factory should also be submitted.
• Customs authorities give serial number (called 'Thoka
Number') to shipping bill, when it is presented.
• Duty drawback formalities - If the exporter intends to claim
duty drawback on his exports, he has to follow prescribed
procedures and submit necessary papers.
• Other documents required for export - Exporter also has to
prepare other documents like (a) Four copies of Commercial
Invoice (b) Four copies of Packing List (c) Certificate of Origin
or pre-shipment inspection where required (d) Insurance policy.
(e) Letter of Credit (f) Declaration of Value (g) Excise ARE284
1/ARE-2 form as applicable (h) GR / SDF form prescribed by
RBI in duplicate (i) Letter showing BIN Number.
• RCMC certificate from Export Promotion Council - Various
Export Promotion Councils have been set up to promote and
develop exports. (e.g. Engineering Export Promotion Council,
Apparel Export Promotion Council, etc.) Exporter has to
become member of the concerned Export Promotion Council
and obtain RCMC - Registration cum membership Certificate.
Check in customs
Document submitted is processed by customs authorities, and following are
checked
• Value and classification of goods under drawback schedule in case of
drawback shipping bills
• Export duty / cess if applicable
• Advance License shipping bills are checked to ensure that description
in invoice and final product specified in Advance License matches. If
necessary, samples may be drawn and assessment may be done after
visual inspection or testing
• Exportability of goods under EXIM policy and other laws - Some
exports are totally prohibited under various Acts e.g. items restricted
or prohibited under Foreign Trade (Regulation) Act; antiques; art
treasures; Arms; narcotics etc. Some items like tea, coffee and coir
products can be exported only against authorisation/licence under
respective Acts.
Examination of goods before export
After shipping bill is passed by export department, the goods are presented to
shed appraiser (exports) in dock for examination. Goods will be examined by
examiner. This inspection is necessary (a) to ensure that prohibited goods are
not exported (b) goods tally with description and invoice (c) duty drawback,
where applicable, is correctly claimed.
Let Export Order by Customs Authorities
Customs Officer will verify the contents and after he is satisfied that goods are
not prohibited for exports and that export duty, if applicable is paid, will
permit clearance. (section 51) by giving ‘let ship’ or ‘let export’ order.
GR-1, ARE-1, octroi papers, quota certification for export etc. are also signed.
Exporter’s copy of shipping Bill, GR-1, and ARE-1 etc. duly certified are
handed over to exporter or CHA. Drawback claims papers are also processed.
–
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Conveyance to leave on written order
The vessel or aircraft which has brought imported goods or which carry export
goods cannot leave that customs station unless a written order is given by
Customs Officer. Such order is given only after (a) export manifest is
submitted (b) shipping bills or bills of export, bills of transhipment etc. are
submitted (c) duties on stores consumed are paid or payment of the same is
secured (d) no penalty is leviable (e) export duty, if applicable, is paid. - -
Such permission is not required if the conveyance is carrying only luggage of
occupants.
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity A
Give the name of any five documents that the importer is required to submit to
the customs authorities?
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
21.3 CLEARANCE OF GOODS
Following are the procedures of Baggage and Clearance.
21.3.1 BAGGAGE
Elaborate provisions have been made for baggage as many Indians have
tremendous craze for foreign goods - particularly electronic goods, cosmetics,
liquor, perfumes etc.
(a) Baggage means all dutiable articles, imported by passenger or a member
of a crew in his baggage (b) Un-accompanied baggage, if despatched
previously or subsequently within prescribed period is also covered (c)
baggage does not include motor vehicles, alcoholic drinks and goods
imported through courier (d) Baggage does not include articles imported
under an import licence for his own use or on behalf of others.
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BONA FIDE BAGGAGE EXEMPT FROM DUTY
Bona fide baggage accompanying passenger is exempt from duty. It includes
wearing apparel, toilet requisites and other personal effects.
GENERAL PROHIBITIONS
Following are general prohibitions / restrictions –
(a) Foreign and Indian currency can be taken out / brought in only as per
restrictions of RBI under FEMA
(b) Possession of narcotic drugs is strictly prohibited.
(c) Domestic pets like dogs, cats, birds etc. can be brought as per strict health
certificate regulations.
(d) Taking out exotic birds, wind orchids and wild life, is strictly prohibited.
(e) Endangered species or articles made from flora and fauna such as ivory,
musk, reptile skins, furs, shahtoosh or antiques are prohibited.
Declaration by owner of baggage
Section 77 of Customs Act provides that owner of any baggage has to make
declaration of its contents to customs officer. Rate of duty and tariff valuation
shall be the rate and valuation in force on the date of declaration.
• GREEN CHANNEL - It is impractical to ask every traveller to declare
contents of his baggage. Hence, customs have provided two channels
at airports. If a person does not have any dutiable goods, he can go
through green channel.
• An incoming passenger has to submit disembarkation card, containing
written declaration about his baggage. This should be collected when
passenger goes through green channel. –
• Any passenger found walking through green channel with dutiable or
prohibited goods (or found mis-declaring quantity, value or description
while going through red channel) is liable to strict penal action of
seizure and confiscation. He can even be arrest / prosecuted
• Ministry has advised that instead of high percentage of screening the
bags, field formations should intensify intelligence and surveillance
system of passenger profiling to ensure that only suspect passengers
and frequent short visit passengers are diverted from green channel for
scanning of baggage.
• RED CHANNEL - Person carrying dutiable goods should pass through
red channel and should submit declaration. The declaration of goods
and value as given by passenger in disembarkation card is generally
accepted, but baggage can be inspected by customs officer.
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Rate of duty on baggage
Rate of duty on baggage is as follows:
• GENERAL RATE ON BAGGAGE - Baggage is classified in Customs
Tariff in Chapter 98.03, irrespective of actual classification as per
Customs Tariff. The entry reads as “All dutiable articles, imported by
passenger or member of crew in his baggage”. Tariff rate is 150%.
However, effective rate (i.e. specified by a notification) is 35% w.e.f.
1-3-2005, plus education cess of 2% on the duty.
• This rate is not available to - fire arms, cartridge of firearms exceeding
50, cigarettes, cigars or tobacco in excess of the quantity prescribed for
importation free of duty under Baggage Rules and goods imported
through courier service
• CONCESSIONAL RATE IN CERTAIN CASES - A person returning
after one year or a person transferring his residence to India after two
years' stay abroad, is eligible for concessional rates on some goods.
• DUTY ON GOLD IN SOME CASES - Gold brought as baggage by a
passenger of Indian origin or a person holding Indian passport. The
duty is only Rs 100 per Kg for import of gold bars bearing
manufacturer’s or refiner’s engraved serial number and weight
expressed in metric units and gold coins. In case of other gold,
including tola bars and ornaments (but excluding ornaments studded
with stones or pearls), the duty is Rs 250 per Kg. Upto 10 Kg gold can
be brought by each eligible passenger. No special additional duty or
CVD is payable. The person should have been staying abroad for over
six months. Duty must be paid only in convertible foreign currency.
Out of the period of 6 months, short visits upto 30 days are permitted,
if the concession was not availed in those short visits.
• DUTY ON SILVER IN SOME CASES - Silver brought as baggage by
a passenger of Indian origin holding Indian passport upto 100 Kg is
chargeable to duty of Rs. 500 per Kg, if the person was staying abroad
for over six months. Duty has to be paid only in convertible foreign
currency. No special additional duty, or CVD is payable. Out of the
period of 6 months, short visits upto 30 days are permitted, if the
concession was not availed in such short visit.
• The gold and sliver so obtained can be sold in India, provided that
payment for the same is obtained by cheque in Indian rupees gold.
• IMPORT FOR PERSONAL USE - Dutiable articles imported by air or
post, but not as baggage, intended for personal use, which are not
prohibited under Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act are
classifiable under 98.04 and general rate is 30%, plus 4% special
additional duty (SAD). The goods are exempt from additional duty
(CVD).
• BAGGAGE EXEMPT OR AT CONCESSIONAL RATE OF DUTY -
Following baggage is exempt from customs duty - (a) Personal
property re-imported (b) Free replacement under warranty of articles
which are private personal property of passenger (c) foodstuff upto Rs
50,000 (d) Free gifts and donations to red cross, CARE or Government
of India for relief and rehabilitation (e) Samples, price lists, prototypes,
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commercial samples etc. (f) Goods brought for display, exhibition, fair
etc., subject to various conditions (g) Agricultural products or goods
manufactured or produced in Nepal. (h) Other goods as
• EXEMPTION TO MINOR AMOUNTS OF CUSTOMS DUTY –
Customs duty is not payable if amount of duty is Equal to or less than
Rs 100
Exemptions/Restrictions on Baggage
Tourists can be broadly classified as (a) Indian persons going abroad for a
short trip and coming back (b) Indian persons gone abroad for work and
coming back after few years (c) tourists visiting India for sight seeing or
business purpose. Accordingly, ‘Baggage Rules, 1998’ contain different
provisions for (a) Residents from India (b) Tourists visiting India and (c)
Persons transferring their residence.
Exemption only to bonafide baggage - The exemption to baggage is available
only to bonafide baggage. Though the term 'bonafide' baggage is not defined,
baggage declaration form prescribed that 'bonafide baggage' includes
• wearing apparel * personal and household effects meant for personal
use of passenger or family members travelling with him and not for
sale or gift
• Jewellery including articles made wholly or mainly of gold, in
reasonable quantity according to status of passenger
• Tools of draftsman
• Instruments of physician or surgeon.
Baggage of Indian Resident or foreigner residing in India
Resident means a person holding Indian Passport and normally residing in
India (i.e. Indian persons going abroad for short visit). The concession of free
import of used personal effects and general free allowance is also available for
foreign citizens residing in India.
• Used personal effects - Used articles of personal wear and articles in
personal use of passengers for daily necessaries is fully exempt. Used
personal effects are also exempt. (This allowance is also available to
foreign citizens residing in India returning from abroad).
• EXPORT CERTIFICATE WHILE GOING OUT - Note that items like
camera, computer, jewellery etc. will be permitted duty free as
personal effects only if these were taken from India while going
abroad. An 'export certificate' should be obtained from authorities
while taking these goods abroad, so that these can be brought back
without payment of duty.
• GENERAL FREE ALLOWANCE - In addition to personal effects
(excluding jewellery), a passenger of 12 or more years of age is
allowed general free allowance of Rs. 25,000, if the Indian Resident is
returning from country other than Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar or China.
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This allowance is also available to foreign citizens residing in India
and tourists of Indian origin. The allowance is also available if he is
transferring his residence or returning after 3/12 / 24 months. A Non
Resident Indian who does not hold Indian passport is also entitled to
GFA if he is of Indian origin this allowance cannot be pooled with
General Free Allowance of other passengers - e.g. husband and wife
bringing one item of Rs. 50,000 will not be permitted duty free. . The
GFA is not available to foreign tourists. This General Free Allowance
is not applicable to un-accompanied baggage.
• RESTRICTED/EXCLUDED ITEMS FROM GENERAL FREE
ALLOWANCE - The exemption is not allowed to items included in
Annex I to Baggage Rules, 1998. Items included in Annex I are: (1)
fire arms; (2) cartridges of fire arms exceeding 50; (3) cigarettes
exceeding 200 or cigars exceeding 50 or tobacco exceeding 250 Gms.;
(4) Alcoholic liquor and wines in excess of one Liter each (5) Gold or
Silver in any form, other than ornaments.
• Allowance to professionals returning to India - An Indian passenger
who was engaged in his profession abroad for over three months is
allowed to import following duty free goods as additional allowance -
(a) Household Articles upto Rs 6,000 (e.g. linen, utensils, tableware,
kitchen appliances, an iron etc.) (b) Professional equipment like
portable equipments, apparatus and appliances required in such
profession, upto Rs. 10,000/-. The limit will be increased to Rs.
20,000/- if he was abroad for over 6 months.
• This exemption of professional equipment is only for carpenters,
plumbers, welders, masons and the like and not for items of common
use like cameras, typewriter, cassette-recorder, computers, word
processor etc. - Rule 5 of Baggage Rules, 1998 read with Appendix C.
• Limited exemption to jewellery - If the passenger was residing abroad
for over one year, jewellery can be imported duty free upto Rs. 10,000
in case of gentleman passenger and Rs. 20,000 in case of lady
passenger.
• Imported goods taken abroad and brought back - A tourist can take
imported equipment like camera, cellular phone, notebook computers
02etc. abroad. In such case, he should take 'Export Certificate' with
him while going abroad. This will enable him to bring back the said
goods without payment of duty on return. It is now provided that
frequent travellers can get such certificate in advance. The certificate
will be serially numbered with official seal of issuing authority-giving
details of the product. Such certificate will be valid for one year and
can be obtained from any major customs house, international airport or
seaport.
• Duty payable on balance un-exempted baggage - The baggage
(including un-accompanied baggage) is exempt subject to limits
mentioned above. The balance quantity is dutiable at rates explained
above. Duty payable on Silver and Gold imported, as baggage has been
separately prescribed.
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Concession to persons transferring his residence (TR)
A person who is transferring his residence to India is eligible to bring used
personal and household articles to India without duty. The provisions are
applicable to all - i.e. foreigners coming for residing in India as well as Indian
resident coming after 2 years and who is transferring his residence to India.
• The conditions are: (a) He should have been residing abroad for at least
two years. During this period short visits not exceeding 6 months are
permissible. (b) The provision regarding 2 years' stay can be condoned
upto 2 months by Assistant Commissioner, if the early return was due
to terminal leave or vacation or other special circumstances. (c) The
provision regarding maximum 6 months stay during 2 years can be
relaxed by Commissioner in deserving cases (d) The passenger should
not have availed this concession in preceding three years (e) Goods in
Annex I & II are not allowed under this concession. (Rules 8 of
Baggage Rules, 1998, read with Appendix F). (However, duty on 18
items in Annex II is 30% upto value of goods of Rs. 5.0 lakhs).
• GENERAL FREE ALLOWANCE - A passenger can also avail of
‘General Free Allowance’ as available to other residents, in addition to
above. (Rule 8).
• PERSONAL AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS - The exemption is
available only for ‘personal and household goods’ i.e. those required
for use of the passenger or running the household. CONCESSION
FOR TRANSFER OF RESIDENCE - A person transferring his
residence to India after stay abroad for two years and who has not
availed this concession in preceding three years is eligible for
concession upto value of Rs. 5.00 lakhs exclusive of value of his
personal effects and other household articles. This concession is
available on 18 articles contained in Annex II of Baggage Rules, 1998.
Duty is 30%. Passenger has to declare that no other person of his
family has availed this benefit.
• ARTICLES NOT ALLOWED UNDER TR - Transfer of Residence
concession is not available to motor vehicles, vessels, aircrafts,
cinematograph films, alcoholic liquor and wines (in excess of one litre
each), cigarettes (exceeding 200), cigars (exceeding 50), tobacco
(exceeding 250 gms.), Gold (other than ornaments), Silver (other than
ornaments), fire arms and cartridges of fire arms exceeding 50 – Annex
I and II of Baggage Rules.
Allowance for persons returning after one year i.e. Mini TR
A person who was working abroad and is returning to India on
termination of work and who was staying abroad for at least 365 days out
of previous two years is eligible to certain concessions. This is termed as
‘mini TR’ i.e. ‘Mini Transfer of Residence’. He is entitled to bring
personal effects and household articles upto Rs. 75,000/- duty free [The
limit was Rs 30,000 upto 28-2-2002]. This allowance is in addition to
General Free Allowance. The conditions are (a) These should be in
possession of himself or his family and used for at least six months (b) He
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shall be allowed to avail himself of this exemption only once in three
years. (c) Items in Annex I & Annex II to Baggage Rules are not allowed
under this rule. (d) Goods should be contained in his bonafide baggage.
Items under Annex I am already explained above. Items under Annex II are as
follows:
ITEMS IN ANNEX II –
Colour/monochrome TV
(i) VCR/VCP/VTR
(ii) Digital Video Disc (DVD) player
(iii) Video Home Theatre system
(iv) Washing machine
(v) Electrical/LPG cooking range (other than stoves with upto two
burners)
(vi) Music system
(vii) Personal/Desk top Computer
(viii) Note book computer/ laptop computer
(ix) Air conditioner
(x) Refrigerator
(xi) Deep freezer
(xii) Microwave oven
(xiii) Video camera or video camera with TV, sound/video recording
apparatus
(xiv) Word processing machine.
(xv) Fax machine.
(xvi) Portable photocopying machine
(xvii) Vessels
(xviii) Aircrafts
(xix) Cinematograph films of 35 mm and above.
(xx) Gold or Silver in any form, other than ornaments.
In other words, the exemption of Rs. 75,000 is illusory as the items a person
would like to bring after stay abroad are mostly not exempt. However, duty
payable is 30% on the first 18 items included in Annex II upto value of Rs 1,
50,000 in case of Mini TR.
Since ‘baggage’ does not include motor vehicles, liquor and firearms, the
exemption is obviously not applicable for those goods.
• CONCESSIONAL RATE OF 30% IF PERSON RETURNING
AFTER STAY OF 365 DAYS - The general rate of customs duty on
baggage is reduced to 30% if a person holding Indian passport, returns
to India after staying abroad for at least 365 days in last two years. He
should be 'working abroad', i.e. mere stay with relatives or others is not
enough to avail this concession. The person is eligible for following
concession: duty payable is 30% on CTV, VCR, VCP, cooking range,
washing machines, A/C, PC, dish washers, musical systems,
refrigerator, deep freeze, micro-wave oven, video camera, word
processing machine and Fax machine. (These are first 18 items
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included in Annex II to Baggage Rules, 1998) Concession is available
for one unit of these goods per family upto total value of Rs. 75,000,
inclusive of value of other goods imported duty free under rule 5 of
Baggage Rules. [Under these rules, household articles excluding those
in Annex I and Annex II are permitted to be imported duty free].
Concessions to Tourists
Tourists visit India for various purposes and rules have been framed to allow
them to bring goods to India.
Tourist means (a) a person who is not normally resident of India (b) who
enters India for stay of not more than six months in the course of twelve
month period (c) he should come for legitimate non-immigrant purpose such
as touring, recreation, sport, health, family reasons, study, religious
pilgrimages or business. [rule 2(iii) of Baggage Rules, 1998].
Thus, Non-Resident Indians who do not hold Indian passports are also covered
in this definition.
Exemption to Baggage of tourists
Following are the exemptions -
(a) Used personal effects of tourist and travel souvenirs are allowed duty free.
Personal effects should be for personal use of the tourist and these goods,
other than consumed, should be re-exported when tourist leaves India for
foreign destination.
(b) Tourists of Indian Origin (even if holding foreign passport) other than
those coming from Pakistan by land route, are entitled to General Free
Allowance in addition to 'personal effects'.
(c) Foreign Tourists are permitted to bring articles upto Rs 4,000 for making
gifts. This can include upto 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 gms of tobacco
and upto 1 litre each of Alcoholic liquor and wine. Duty will have to be paid
for gifts over the value of Rs 4,000 (Rs 3,000 if they are coming from
Pakistan).
(d) Tourists of Pakistani origin or foreign tourists coming from Pakistan or
tourists of Indian origin coming from Pakistan, by land route, are entitled to
bring used personal effects and travel souvenirs are allowed duty free.
Personal effects should be for personal use of the tourist and these goods,
other than consumed, should be re-exported when tourist leaves India for
foreign destination. In addition, articles upto values of Rs 3,000 for making
gifts are permitted duty free.
(e) Tourists of Nepalese origin coming from Nepal or of Bhutanese origin
coming from Bhutan are not entitled to any exemption. The rules do not even
make mention in respect of exemption of personal goods for their personal
use. Obviously, this is not the intention. In fact, as per section 79(1) (b) of
Customs Act, articles of baggage for use of the passenger or his family are
exempt from customs duty and hence they will be exempt even if no specific
mention is made in rules.
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IMPORT BY FOREIGN EXPERTS
Foreign experts assigned to India under various UN schemes etc. are
permitted to bring various articles, including VCR, video camera and Air
conditioners. These are exempt from customs duty on obtaining certificate of
undertaking from the expert. Duty will be paid by concerned ministry /
department.
21.3.2 GOODS IMPORTED AND EXPORTED BY
POST
Normal procedures for import by air/ship/road are not possible for imports as
‘baggage’ or import through post. Hence, separate provisions have been made
for import/export by post.
• ENTRY FOR PURPOSE OF POSTAL ARTICLES - 'Entry' means an
Entry made in 'Bill of Entry' in case of imports and 'Shipping Bill' in
case of exports. In case of post parcels, Label/declaration
accompanying goods which contain description, quantity and value of
the goods will be deemed to be an ‘Entry’ for purposes of Customs
Act, vide section 82 of Customs Act. Thus, filing of separate Bill of
Entry or Shipping Bill is not necessary for import/export through post.
• RATE OF DUTY AND TARIFF VALUATION - As per section 83 of
Customs Act, the rate of duty and valuation as on date on which postal
authorities submit the list to Customs Officer will be considered.
However, if such list is presented before arrival of vessel, the date will
be deemed to be date of arrival of the vessel. Similarly, in case of
exports, rate and tariff valuation as applicable on date on which goods
are handed over to postal authorities will be considered.
Regulation for import/ export by post
Section 84 authorises Board to make regulations for procedures for
examination and assessment of duty and transit/transhipment of goods
imported by post. Accordingly, CBE and C have made rules.
• POST PARCELS TO POST OFFICE - Post parcels will be allowed to
pass from port/airport to Foreign Parcel Department of Government
Post Offices without payment of customs duty. Postmaster will hand
over to Principal Appraiser, Customs following (a) memo showing
total number of parcels from each country of origin (b) Parcel Bills or
Senders’ declaration (c) Customs declaration and despatch notes, if any
(d) other information that may be required.
• INSPECTION OF MAIL - The mail bag will be opened and
scrutinised by Postmaster under supervision of Principal Postal
Appraiser of Customs. Packets suspected of containing dutiable goods
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will be separated and presented to Customs Appraiser with letter mail
bill and assessment memos.
• PARCEL BILL/LETTER MAIL BILL - The parcel bill/letter mail bill
will show details like (a) Serial number assigned by office of posting
(b) Name of office of posting (c) Destination (d) weight (e) local
number (f) Contents as ascertained by Customs (g) Declared value in
foreign currency (h) Rupee Value (i) Rate of duty (j) Amount of duty
and (k) Remarks.
• EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT - Customs Appraiser will
mark the parcels which are required to be detained as (a) necessary
particulars are not available or (b) mis-declaration or under-valuation
is suspected or (c) goods are prohibited for import. Other parcels will
be assessed without opening, on the basis of details given in parcel bill
or despatch notes. The duty will be assessed and will be entered on
parcel bill. These will be audited and returned to Postmaster.
Postmaster will hand over parcel to addressee only after collecting the
customs duty.
• OPENING OF PARCELS - Parcels selected by Appraiser for
examination will be opened and examined. If required, details will be
called from addressee. After inspection, the parcels will be sealed with
a distinctive seal. If mis-declaration or under-valuation is noted or
goods are prohibited goods for imports, these will be detained and
reported to Customs Commissioner. After assessment, these will be
handed over to Post Master, who will hand over to addressee on receipt
of payment of Customs duty.
GIFTS BY POST
Gifts from abroad upto Rs. 10,000 of goods, which are not prohibited goods
for import, are duty free if sent by post or through courier. The postal charges
or air freight will not be taken into account for determining value limit of Rs
10,000. [Notification No. 171/93-Cus dated 16-9-1993 as amended on 6-7-
1999]. However, if the value exceeds Rs 10,000, customs duty is payable on
whole value even if gift was received unsolicited.
EXEMPTIONS TO POST PARCELS
Post Parcel where customs duty payable is less than Rs. 100 are fully exempt
from duty (this is obviously with a view to ignore small parcels). Post Parcels
posted from India but returned un-delivered are also exempt from customs
duty, if no export benefit was claimed on these parcels.
EXPORT BY POST
Articles exported by post are required to be covered by a declaration in
prescribed form. Where the value exceeds Rs 50 and payment is to be
received, the export must be declared in exchange control form PP. Export of
Indian and foreign currency, bank drafts, cheques, National Saving
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Certificates are not allowed unless accompanied by permit issued by RBI,
unless where such negotiable instruments are sent by authorised dealers in
India. Goods upto Rs 25,000 can be exported as gifts. Export of purchases
made by foreign tourists is permitted on submission of proof that payment was
received in foreign exchange.
21.3.3 STORE
Section 2(38) define ‘Stores’ as goods for use in a vessel or aircraft and
includes diesel and spare parts and other articles of equipment, whether or not
they are required for immediate fitting. The ships/aircrafts coming from
abroad require spares and consumables for their ships and hence special
provisions have been made.
• TRANSIT AND TRANSSHIPMENT
• Stores can remain on Board of vessel or aircraft while in India.
Imported Stores can be transferred to another vessel or aircraft with
permission of Customs officer, without payment of duty, if the vessel
is a foreign going vessel. - section 86. Imported stores on board a
vessel or aircraft can be consumed as stores without payment of
customs duty, as long as the vessel or aircraft is a foreign going vessel
or aircraft. (Section 87.)
• WAREHOUSING OF STORES
• Imported stores can be kept in warehouse without assessment of duty
and without payment of duty for supply to ships / aircrafts. (Section
85.)
• REMOVAL OF STORES FROM WAREHOUSE - The stores can be
removed from warehouse without payment of duty to be taken back on
foreign going vessel. A 'shipping bill' has to be submitted if the 'stores'
are to be removed without payment of duty. Warehouse rent and other
penalties etc. if applicable, are payable before removal of stores.
(Section 88.)If stores are to be removed after payment of duty for
home consumption, Bill of Entry has to be submitted and goods can be
removed after payment of duty, penalties, rent and interest as may be
applicable.
• STORES FREE OF EXPORT DUTY - Stores manufactured or
produced in India may be exported without payment of export duty, as
stores on any foreign going vessel with permission of Customs Officer,
who will determine the requirement based on size of vessel or aircraft,
length of journey etc. - section 89. - - Since the supply is treated as
‘export’ it will be eligible for duty drawback.
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• SUPPLY OF IMPORTED DUTY PAID STORES - Imported duty
paid stores can be supplied as 'stores' to foreign going vessel. If such
supplies of stores are made, 98% of customs duty paid will be allowed
as 'duty drawback'. If fuel or lubricating oil is supplied as stores to
foreign going vessel, 100% customs duty paid on the fuel or
lubricating oil is refunded as ‘duty draw back’. - Section 88
21.3.4 GOODS IN TRANSIT
Section 53 provide that any goods imported in any conveyance will be allowed
to remain on the conveyance and to be transited without payment of customs
duty, to any place out of India or any customs station. However, all these
goods must be mentioned in import manifest or import report submitted by
person in charge of conveyance. Such goods should not be ‘prohibited goods’
under section 11 of Customs Act. [The conveyance may be vehicle, ship or
aircraft]. After transit, the goods may go to another customs station.
On arrival at customs station, the goods will be liable to customs duty as if it is
first importation in India
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity B
Give the name of the two channels provided by customs at airport ?
a)
b)
Activity C
Discuss whether the following items are included in Annex 1 to Baggage
Rules, 1988:
a) Video camera
b) Aircraft
c) Fire arms
d) Computer
e) Music system
f) Gold other than ornaments
21.4 DUTY DRAWBACK PROVISIONS
Drawback means the rebate of duty chargeable on any imported materials or
excisable materials used in manufacture or processing of goods which are
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manufactured in India and exported. Export means taking out of India. Supply
of stores for use in vessel or aircraft proceeding to foreign port is also covered,
since it is treated as ‘export’ as per section 89 of Customs Act.
Duty Drawback is equal to (a) customs duty paid on imported inputs including
SAD plus (b) excise duty paid on indigenous inputs. Duty paid on packing
material is also eligible. However, if inputs are obtained without payment of
customs/excise duty, no drawback will be paid. If customs/excise duty is paid
on part of inputs or rebate/refund is obtained, only that part on which duty is
paid and on which rebate/refund is not obtained will be eligible for drawback.
No drawback is available on other taxes like sales tax and octroi.
Processing also eligible for Drawback - Drawback is allowable if any
manufacture; process or any operation is carried out in India [section 75(1) of
Customs Act]. Thus, drawback is available not only on manufacture, but also
on processing and job work, where goods may not change its identity and no
‘manufacture’ has taken place.
Type of Drawback Rates –
• All Industry Drawback rates are fixed by Directorate of Drawback,
Dept. of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India, Jeevan Deep,
Parliament Street, New Delhi - 110 001. The rates are periodically
revised - normally on 1st June every year. Data from industry is
collected for this purpose. The types of rates are as follows:
• ALL INDUSTRY RATE - This rate is fixed under rule 3 of Drawback
Rules by considering average quantity and value of each class of inputs
imported or manufactured in India. Average amount of duties paid is
considered. These rates are fixed for broad categories of products. The
rates include drawback on packing materials. Normally, the rates are
revised every year from 1st June, i.e. after considering the impact of
budget, which is presented in February every year. All Industry
drawback rate is not fixed if the rate is less than 1% of FOB Value,
unless the drawback claim per shipment exceeds Rs 500.
• The AIR (All Industry Rate) is usually fixed as % of FOB price of
export products. However, in respect of many export products, duty
drawback cap (ceiling) has been prescribed, so that even if an exporter
gets high price, his duty drawback eligibility does not go above the
ceiling prescribed.
• The table gives allocation of the drawback allowed under two heads
namely - Customs and Central Excise. The Customs portion covers
basic customs duty, surcharge and SAD. Excise portion covers basic
and special excise duty and CVD. Duty drawback of customs portion
can be paid even if exporter has availed Cenvat credit, as Cenvat credit
is only of excise duty and CVD.
• The All Industry Rate (AIR) is fixed on the basis of weighted averages
of consumption of imported / indigenous inputs of a representative
cross section of exporters and average incidence of duties. Hence,
individual exporter is not required to produce any evidence in respect
of actual duties paid by him on inputs
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• BRAND RATE - It is possible to fix All Industry Rate only for some
standard products. It cannot be fixed for special type of products. In
such cases, brand rate is fixed under rule 6. The manufacturer has to
submit application with all details to Commissioner, Central Excise.
Such application must be made within 60 days of export. This period
can be extended by Central Government by further 30 days. Further
extension can be granted even upto one year in if delay was due to
abnormal situations
• SPECIAL BRAND RATE - All Industry rate is fixed on average basis.
Thus, a particular manufacturer may find that the actual duty paid on
inputs is higher than All Industry Rate fixed for his product. In such
case, he can apply under rule 7 of Drawback Rules for fixation of
Special Brand Rate, within 30 days from export. The conditions of
eligibility are (a) the all Industry rate fixed should be less than 80% of
the duties paid by him (b) rate should not be less than 1% of FOB
value of product except when amount of drawback per shipment is
more than Rs. 500 (c) export value is not less than the value of
imported material used in them - i.e. there should not be ‘negative
value addition’.
Drawback Rate Fixation
Forms and procedures have been prescribed for submitting details to
jurisdictional Commissioner of Central Excise, who will fix the rate of duty
drawback
Drawback claim procedure
• Exporter shall endorse on the ‘shipping bill’ the description, quantity
and other details to decide whether goods are eligible for duty
drawback. He should submit one extra copy of shipping bill for
drawback purposes. Copy of Invoice should be submitted.
• DECLARATION BY EXPORTER - A declaration should be made
rule 12(1)(a)(ii) of Duty Drawback Rules, on shipping bill or bill of
export that claim of drawback is being made and that duties of customs
and excise have been paid on materials, containers and packing
materials and that no separate claim for rebate of duty will be made. If
the exporter or his authorised agent was unable to make such
declaration due to reasons beyond his control, Commissioner of
Customs can grant exemption from this provision of making
declaration on shipping bill or bill of export.
• Further declarations are also required when brand rate or special brand
rate has been fixed. These declarations have to be signed by exporter.
• Triplicate copy of shipping Bill is the drawback copy and should be
marked as ‘Drawback Claim Copy’. It should be submitted with prereceipt
on reverse side with revenue stamp.
• DECLARATION FOR NON-AVAILMENT OF CENVAT – (a) If the
manufacturer-exporter or supporting manufacturer of merchant
exporter is registered with Central Excise, fact of non-availment of
Cenvat credit can be verified from ARE-1 form furnished (b) If the
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manufacturer-exporter or supporting manufacturer of merchant
exporter is not registered with Central Excise, they have to submit selfdeclaration
about non-availment of Cenvat in prescribed form. The
drawback rate consists of two components - customs portion
(consisting of basic customs duty, surcharge and SAD) and excise
portion (consisting of basic excise duty, special excise duty and CVD).
The Cenvat credit is only in respect of central excise. Hence, it has
been clarified that even if Cenvat credit has been availed, duty
drawback in respect of customs portion will be available.
Duty drawback on Re-export
• Section 74 of Customs Act, 1962 provide for drawback if the goods are
re-exported as such or after use. This may happen in cases like import
for exhibitions, goods rejected or wrong shipment etc. The re-exported
goods should be identifiable as having been imported and should be reexported
within two years from date of payment of duty when they
were imported. This period (of two years) can be extended by CBE&C
on sufficient cause being shown. These should be declared and
inspected by Customs Officer. Original shipping bill under which the
goods were imported should be produced. The goods can be exported
as cargo by air or sea, or as baggage or by post. -. -. - After inspection,
export and submission of application with full details, 98% of the
customs duty paid while importing the goods is repaid as drawback.
• DISTINCTION BETWEEN SECTION 74 AND 75 - Section 74 is
applicable when imported goods are re-exported as it is and article is
easily identifiable, while section 75 is applicable when imported
materials are used in the manufacture of goods which are then exported
• VALUE AT THE TIME OF EXPORT IS RELEVANT - As per
section 74(4), goods are deemed to have been entered for export on the
date rate of duty is to be calculated under section 16. As per section 16,
value of export goods will be taken on the date on which proper officer
makes an order permitting clearance of goods for export under section
51 of Customs Act. Hence, ‘Value’ for the purposes of section 76(1)
(b) will be value at the time of export and not the original value of
import of the goods.
• GOODS CAN BE RE-EXPORTED TO ANY PARTY AND FROM
ANY PORT – It has been clarified that goods can be re-exported to
any party (and not only to the same supplier) and re-export can take
place from any port
• DRAWBACK FOR USED GOODS - If the imported goods are used
before re-export, the drawback will be allowed at a reduced percentage
[section 76(2) of Customs Act, 2162]. If the goods were in possession
of the importer, they might be treated as used by the importer. As per
the rules framed by Central Government, the table is as follows: (a) use
upto 6 months; 85% (b) 6 months to 12 months: 70% (c) 12 months to
18 months: 60% (d) 18 months to 24 months: 50% (e) 24 months to 30
months: 40% (f) 30 months to 36 months: 30% (g) over 36 months:
Nil. Drawback is allowed if the use is over 24 months only with
permission of Commissioner of Customs if sufficient cause is shown.
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• GOODS FOR PERSONAL USE - If the goods (including motor car)
were imported for personal use, the reduction in import duty
refundable is 4% per quarter for first year, 3% per quarter for second
year, 2.5% per quarter for third year and 2%
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Activity D
Give the name of the three types of drawback rates?
a)
b)
c)
Activity E
Who fixed the all industry drawbacks rates?
21. 5 SUMMARY
Customs duties levied by central government import of goods into, and export
of goods from, India. These rules are applicable for imported good not
applicable to exported goods. Good are imported or exported from India
through sea, air or land. Goods can come through post parcel or as baggage
with passengers. Procedure naturally varies depending on mode of import or
export. There are separate provisions for baggage. There are provisions for
draw back of custom and excise duty paid on inputs.
21.6 GLOSSARY
The various key words, which arise in this chapter, are
Aircraft means any machine, which can derive support in the atmosphere
from reactions of the air and includes balloons whether fixed, or free, airships,
kites, gliders and flying machines.”
Assessments include provisional assessment, reassessment and any order of
assessment in which the duty assessed is nil.
Bill of export refers to a prescribed form for the goods to be exported by
land
Board means the Central Board of Excise and Customs constituted under the
Central Boards of Revenue Act, 1963. [2(6)1]
Conveyance includes a vessel, an aircraft and a vehicle.
Duty means a duty of customs leviable under this Act.
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Examination in relation to any goods, includes measurement and weighment
thereof
Export Price means the price at which goods are exported. If the export
price is unreliable due to association or compensatory arrangement between
exporter and importer or a third party, export price can be constructed
(revised) on the basis of price at which the imported articles are first sold to
independent buyer or according to rules made for determining margin of
dumping.
Vehicle means conveyance of any kind used on land and includes a railway
vehicle
Warehouse means a public warehouse appointed under section 57 or
private warehouse licensed under section 58
Warehoused Goods means goods deposited in a warehouse.
21.7 SELF ASSESSMENT EXCERSCISE
1) Explain briefly the meaning of First appraisement and Second
appraisement system under customs act 1962?
2) Explain the provisions under customs act 1962 relating to Baggage
duty and concession to the resident retuning from abroad after a short
visit?
3) Write a short note on Drawback under section 74 of the Customs Act
1962?
4) Write short note on the following:
a) Import manifest
b) Customs station
c) Person in charge
d) Entry outward
21.8 FURTHER READINGS
Datey, V.S, 2005. Indirect Taxes, Taxmann Publisher, Delhi. Twentieth
Edition.
Sanjeev Kumar. 2005. Indirect Taxes, Bharat Law House, Delhi. Fifth
Edition.

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